Science Learning with Hero Elementary: Accessible Blended Learning Resources to Reach All Students

Hero Elementary is a transmedia educational initiative aimed at improving the school readiness and academic achievement in science and literacy of children grades K-2. With an emphasis on Latinx communities, English Language Learners, youth with disabilities, and children from low-income households, Hero Elementary celebrates kids and encourages them to make a difference in their own backyards and beyond by actively doing science and using their Superpowers of Science. The content is aligned with NGSS and CCSS-ELA for K–2.

This report describes a case study that examines the design and use of Hero Elementary science resources with K–2 elementary students representing a broad diversity of abilities and cultural identities, including students identified as having moderate cognitive disabilities, English learners, and socioeconomically disadvantaged students. The report examines how these digital and blended resources, designed with equity and accessibility in mind, can support science and literacy learning for students representing a range of backgrounds and identities.