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Busting Gender Bias in Computer Science and Cyber Security

Year Awarded

2023

Amount

€59,915

  • Organisation:University College Dublin (UCD)
  • Co-funded with Dept of Education:Yes
  • Format:Non-formal Education
  • Location:Carlow, Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Laois, Meath, Offaly, Sligo, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow

Project Summary

We propose an inspiring project that combines philosophy, storytelling, and immersive technologies to empower young girls and bridge the gender gap in computer science and cybersecurity.

Our project aims to infuse science with the arts and humanities, utilising Philosophy for Children (P4C) and Storytelling to develop a growth mindset and critical thinking. By establishing an emotional connection with women leaders in computer science and cybersecurity, we will provide role models who ignite ambition in girls.

Building upon our successful initiative, “Girls in DEIS Schools: Changing Attitudes / Impacting Futures in STEM,” recognised with a UCD Impact Case Study award, we are committed to expanding our impact. Research emphasises the importance of instilling self-belief and confidence in girls to engage in STEM. Through hands-on activities like First Lego League/Micro:bit – Do Your Bit and AR/VR immersive activities we will engage girls in coding, robotics, and virtual reality experiences that will foster curiosity and cultivate enquiry.

Recognising the crucial role of teachers, we will partner with the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST) to provide sustained support and enhance STEM educators’ skills. Workshops will address the impact of gender bias on teachers’ behaviors and its influence on girls’ educational choices. Through websites/workshops/shared learning days, we will foster innovative pedagogies to tackle these challenges head-on.

We believe that this project will contribute to a more equitable STEM landscape, empowering young girls to pursue careers in computer science and cybersecurity with confidence and belief in their abilities and inspire the next generation of STEM women leaders.