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Elizabeth Petitsas’ area of focus is the sociology of computer science education. Computer science education (also known as computing education) is the study of the teaching and learning of computer science, including topics like algorithms, programming, and computer logic. Those who take a sociological approach to CS education examine issues such as access and equity in CS education programs, policy issues affecting CS education, and the impact of CS education on society.

Recently, there has been significant effort to make CS education accessible to all students and to incorporate it into the K-12 school system. There has also been a substantial increase in the demand for undergraduate CS classes. Elizabeth is particularly interested in the policy issues surrounding access to CS education, as well as the implications of achieving universal CS literacy. She is currently studying how policy decisions related to access to CS education influence gender balance in CS undergraduate programs, how the beliefs of CS educators shape their teaching, and the most effective ways to teach CS to non-CS audiences.

She holds a cross-appointment (50/50) between the Department of Integrated Studies in Education (DISE) and the School of Computer Science. For more information, including details on whether she is accepting graduate students, visit her website at .