# DiverseClaire: Simulating Students to Improve Introductory Programming Course Materials for All CS1 Learners

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2511.14198 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2511.14198/

## Key facts

- No citing papers in the map yet (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 1 of its 8 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 18 Nov 2025.

## Builds on (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [Leveraging generative artificial intelligence to simulate student learning behavior](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2310.19206/) (2023)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Although CS programs are booming, introductory courses like CS1 still adopt a one-size-fits-all formats that can exacerbate cognitive load and discourage learners with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other neurological conditions. These call for compassionate pedagogies and Universal Design For Learning (UDL) to create learning environments and materials where cognitive diversity is welcomed. To address this, we introduce DiverseClaire a pilot study, which simulates students including neurodiverse profiles using LLMs and diverse personas. By leveraging Bloom's Taxonomy and UDL, DiverseClaire compared UDL-transformed lecture slides with traditional formats. To evaluate DiverseClaire controlled experiments, we used the evaluation metric the average score. The findings revealed that the simulated neurodiverse students struggled with learning due to lecture slides that were in inaccessible formats. These results highlight the need to provide course materials in multiple formats for diverse learner preferences. Data from our pilot study will be made available to assist future CS1 instructors.