We Are All MAD Here...
Our core philosophy it to motivate and increase awareness and diversity in the field of computing, particularly among young women. This is important to us and it should be to you too!
A quantitative survey of 6,009 girls and young women from ages 10-30 examines attitudes towards STEM, school, and the workforce throughout the pipeline. The main findings include:
1) Girls and young women have a hard time picturing themselves in STEM roles. They need more exposure to STEM jobs, female role models, and career awareness and planning;
2) Girls don’t initially see the potential for careers in STEM to be creative or have a positive impact on the world. But even a little exposure to real-world applications of STEM knowledge dramatically changes their outlook;
3) Girls who participate in STEM clubs and activities outside of school are more likely to say they will pursue STEM subjects later in their education. The kinds of experiments and experiences girls are exposed to in these activities can provide insights for how to enhance STEM instruction in the classroom;
4) Encouragement from teachers and parents makes a big difference in girls’ interest in STEM—especially when it comes from both teachers and parents;
5) Educators can foster a “growth mindset” among their female students by tapping into their willingness to work hard for results. Read more…