A large part of Young Women in Computing's focus is research, particularly analyzing which software development tools have positive effects on female interest in technology. Currently, we are expanding our research pool from last summer when we compared LilyPad Arduino and App Inventor with reference to interest generation in CS, programming methods, and tactile vs. virtual learning environments. These software applications were chosen because their uses of creativity and design, programming styles, usability, and marketability make them relatable to YWiC students. LilyPad Arduino and App Inventor also differ in important ways, allowing conclusions regarding their effectiveness to be drawn.
In addition to determining which approaches generate the most interest among students, another objective of our research is to provide an enjoyable and positive experience with technology. YWiC hypothesizes that when provided with a rewarding experience in CS, irrelevant to the tools used, the learned CS concepts, skills, and structures will intensify students’ continued pursuit and exposure to CS opportunities. Ultimately, their confidence will extend to other platforms and an eventual pursuit of a career in C-STEM.
To view our research analysis and findings in poster format from data gathered in Summer 2012, please click here!
Summer 2013 HS Week 1 campers, please click here to take our survey!
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