This study explores interdisciplinary interactions between learning through the Arts and Computer Science in an embodied classroom. Improving Computing Literacy at a young age has incredible benefits, especially with the increasing adoption of Artificial intelligence. This research study explores Music as a pathway to Computer Science (CS) by engaging middle and high school students in an after-school program with a musical robot. Learning modules introduce CS concepts such as algorithm design, problem decomposition and debugging. A preliminary study in our lab showed that Music and CS can intersect when discussing concepts like looping and debugging.

The musical instrument used in this study is called a Dhol (Punjabi Folk Percussion-based Musical Instrument). We measure interactions, interest and learning through pre-and post-tests alongside semi-structured interviews and explore identity formation through this process. Middle and high-school-aged students are invited to participate in this mixed-methods case study research based on whether they have little to no experience playing the Dhol.