The challenges of studying blocks-based programming environments

In this paper we discuss some of the central challenges to rigorously studying blocks-based programming. We categorize these challenges into four groups: design, context, evaluation, and trajectory. For each category, we breakdown specific issues we confront as researchers in trying to isolate the blocks-based modality and outline our own strategies for addressing them. Throughout, we draw on our own experience as designers, educators, and researchers, along with past and current work, to provide guidance on ways to address these challenges and share insights our approach has yielded.