Teaching Quantum Design Automation with Block-Based Programming

Damian Rovara; Robert Wille

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arXiv · 2608.18206

Teaching Quantum Design Automation with Block-Based Programming

Damian Rovara·Robert Wille

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Abstract

As quantum circuits grow beyond small toy examples, preparing them for execution on physical devices becomes increasingly complex. Design automation is therefore essential for scalable quantum computing: Compilation procedures optimize resource requirements and transform circuits to a format compatible with specific hardware; resource estimation evaluates execution cost; verification methods prove circuit correctness. However, these concepts present a steep learning curve for novices, particularly when quantum circuits are introduced through low-level textual representations. To address this, we present a block-based programming framework for quantum design automation, implemented as an extension to the Scratch programming platform. This system allows users to build quantum circuits as a sequence of blocks and embed them in classical control logic to perform evaluations, compare simulation results, and directly apply different design automation techniques. We evaluated the approach in a user study with computer science students, who completed guided exercises using the platform and provided structured feedback in the form of self-reports and short knowledge assessments. Results demonstrate strong understanding and confidence in quantum design automation concepts, suggesting that the block-based approach successfully lowers the entry barrier to quantum design automation. The implemented framework is open-source and available at https://github.com/munich-quantum-toolkit/scratch-quantum.

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Damian Rovara, Robert Wille. 2026-08-18. Teaching Quantum Design Automation with Block-Based Programming. https://arxiv.org/abs/2608.18206

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