THE MULTIPLANO AS AN ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTATIONAL THINKING IN STUDENTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT

Abstract

This article explores the application of the Multiplano as a Tactile Assistive Technology (AT) to support the development of Computational Thinking (CT) in students with Visual Impairment (VI). The objective is to analyze how this educational resource facilitates decomposition, pattern recognition, and algorithmic thinking—crucial skills for CT. The research used a qualitative approach, based on a pedagogical intervention of Action-Research in three case studies with Basic Education students. Data analysis followed the methodology of thematic categorization and content analysis (BARDIN L, 2011; BOGDAN R and BIKLEN S, 1994). The results demonstrate that the Multiplano significantly increases engagement and motivation, acting as a didactic prosthetic that allows the tactile representation of abstract CT concepts, thus enhancing autonomy in problem-solving. However, challenges were identified in specific teacher training and the institutional availability of the material. It is concluded that investment in the Multiplano is fundamental to promoting technological inclusion through touch, requiring an integrated approach and continuous support for its advanced methodological application.