Driving Female STEM Engagement: The IT Workshop for Young Teenagers
In the heart of Panama City, a pioneering program is breaking down the barriers for young girls in technology and science fields. Traditional gender stereotypes, economical obstacles, and the stark scarcity of female role models in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are formidable challenges that discourage young women from embarking on computer-related careers. These barriers, however, are gradually being dismantled through innovative and inclusive educational programs.
The Universidad de Panama recently hosted an unprecedented IT Workshop for Young Teenagers, aimed primarily at encouraging girls to explore the exciting world of IT. Over eight weekend sessions, students dived into a world of creativity, analysis, and design, discovering the intriguing possibilities within computer science and IT careers.
Initiated through a notable grant from the IEEE Computer Society’s Diversity and Inclusion Fund, the workshop was designed with the objective of increasing female participation in computer science fields. “Our mission was to ignite interest among girls in the dynamic world of computer-related careers. We focused on showcasing that these careers offer a wealth of opportunities that align with their interests and talents,” explained Donna Roper, the visionary behind the project at the Universidad de Panama.
The program saw active enrollment from 49 students across 8th to 10th grades, with a participation rate of 59% girls, the majority of whom hailed from public schools. This diverse cohort was carefully assembled with the aim of ensuring representation across varying socioeconomic backgrounds, without compromising the focus on empowering girls in a traditionally male-dominated arena.
Key to the workshop’s ethos was inclusivity; boys were also welcomed to participate, underpinning the belief that a united approach is vital for fostering gender balance in STEM fields. In practice, the presence of boys alongside a majority of female participants created a balanced environment that encouraged girls to confidently assume leadership roles within project groups.
Throughout the duration of the program, students had the privilege of being mentored by professional women from various STEM careers. These mentors not only imparted valuable knowledge and experience but also served as living proof that women can indeed thrive in STEM careers. This mentorship aspect was a cornerstone of the workshop, with industry professionals and academics—35% of whom were affiliated with the university and 65% in practice outside academia—providing guidance and support to the students.
The curriculum was carefully designed to engage students through practical projects and discussions on topics such as data analytics, web development, and the role of women in computing. The projects, often led by girls, helped demystify the world of IT and illustrated the impactful contributions women can make in the field. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing keen interest in topics like video game design and website creation—areas they hoped to explore further in future workshops.
Reflecting on the workshop’s success, organizers revealed that 26% of participants are now considering a future in computer-related fields, a testament to the program’s effectiveness in inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals. The enthusiasm for the ongoing engagement and expansion of this initiative is palpable, with hopes for increased participation and even more comprehensive offerings in future sessions.
This initiative stands as a beacon of hope, not only for Panama but also as a replicable model in other Spanish-speaking countries, highlighting the transformative power of targeted educational programs in overcoming barriers to female participation in STEM careers. It underscores the critical need for continued funding and community support to sustain and grow such impactful programs. The resounding feedback from both students and professional mentors underscores the vital role of education in unlocking the potential of young women in technology and science fields.
Ending on a hopeful note, the journey of these young learners serves as a vivid reminder of the untapped talent waiting to be discovered. As the push for gender diversity in STEM gains momentum, programs like the IT Workshop for Young Teenagers are essential in paving the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and innovative future.
