#1310: Introducing Scratch-Quantum: A Block-Based Interface for Quantum Computing Education

Quantum computing is increasingly recognized as a critical technological domain; however, its mathematical formalisms and Python-based programming interfaces pose substantial barriers for K–12 learners. To address these challenges, this study introduces Scratch-Quantum, a block-based environment that integrates quantum computing capabilities into Scratch. Leveraging IBM Qiskit as a backend, Scratch-Quantum enables learners to construct executable quantum circuits using visual blocks, allowing them to explore qubit initialization, gate operations, and measurement without writing code. This paper presents the design principles and system architecture of Scratch-Quantum and illustrates how learners can explore core quantum phenomena—such as superposition and entanglement—by constructing and running circuits within the tool. We propose this tool as an entry point for introducing quantum concepts into elementary and middle school classrooms by lowering syntactic difficulties and broadening access to quantum computing education.