The Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) is researching the design and usability of OctoStudio, a free app that teaches young people about coding through interactive stories, animations, and games. For the past two years, OctoStudio has been used internationally by thousands of young people. Now, M.I.T. wants to improve usability to ensure that young people who are blind or low-vision (BLV) are also able to access this free tool to learn about coding.


We are inviting young people who are blind or low-vision to participate in a playtest session at the National Federation for the Blind 2026 National Convention. Your child will receive a small gift to thank them for their participation.


The playtest sessions will be on July 4th and July 5th, 2026, at the JW Marriott Austin. If you are interested in learning more, please fill out the information below and a research team member will contact you to schedule the playtest.

First Name

Last Name

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Please select which day(s) are best for your child to participate in a playtest session at the National Federation for the Blind at the 2026 National Convention in Austin, Texas: (check all that apply)

July 4

July 5

My child is not available to participate in a playtest session on those days