ISEDJ

Abstract: Developing empathy skills is crucial for software developers to create user-centric solutions and design exceptional user experiences addressing the diverse needs of customers. This paper presents the findings of a quasi-experimental study that aimed to enhance empathy among computer science students through the exposure of two interventions utilizing teaching accessibility design. The study included 15 participants from a computer science course. Qualitative data analysis of participants' reflections highlighted the transformative impact of the interventions, as participants expressed changes in their views towards people with impairments and reported the development of technical and soft skills, as well as enhanced empathy. The interventions also motivated participants to make changes to their team website designs, prioritize accessibility, and apply their learnings in their professional lives. A second measure assessed in this study was an expert website review which provided valuable feedback for improvement and yielded a high average score for screen reader accessibility. By equipping future computer scientists with these skills, we can ensure that technology meets the diverse needs of all users, promoting inclusivity and enhancing user experiences.

Download this article: ISEDJ - V23 N1 Page 32.pdf

Recommended Citation: Cotler, J.L., Kiss, E., Burshteyn, D., Hale, M., Walker, A., Slyer, J., (2025). Empathy-Driven Student Transformations: Bridging the Gap in Software Development for Inclusive User Experiences. Information Systems Education Journal 23(1) pp 32-45. https://doi.org/10.62273/LEIV1321