Tom Benton

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Tom Benton is a researcher whose work reimagines how novices learn to program by challenging the sedentary, solitary nature of traditional coding. His key research area lies at the intersection of human-computer interaction and computing education, with a focus on making programming more accessible through movement and collaboration. His most notable contribution, the "Programming Standing Up" (PSU) framework, reframes coding as a mobile, social game—exemplified by the IPRO project, a programming and simulation environment designed to engage learners through physical activity and teamwork. This innovative approach addresses a critical barrier for beginners: the mismatch between static coding tasks and the dynamic, social learning styles of many novices. While his 2011 paper "Programming on the move" has garnered 7 citations, its impact extends beyond raw numbers, influencing discussions on embodied cognition in computing education. Benton’s work stands out for its creative departure from convention, offering a playful yet rigorous pathway to lower the entry threshold for programming. His research continues to inspire educators and designers seeking to transform how we teach and learn code.