5 Inspirational Women Who Have Changed the World Through Technology

5 Inspirational Women Who Have Changed the World Through Technology

#GirlMeetsCode What's new? Young people

Girls, listen up – Coding and technology are for everyone! 

Companies are absolutely itching to bring more awesome women into their tech teams, offering them exciting roles that pay well. The technology industry is booming, and it’s all thanks to things like AI (that’s Artificial Intelligence, by the way) and robots that are changing the game. 

Are you ready to dive into the incredible world of coding and technology? 

Trust us, it’s not just about fancy gadgets and lines of code – it’s about unlocking the door to endless possibilities and shaping the future with your brilliant ideas. Imagine being part of the team that makes apps you can’t live without, brings robots to life, and turns your wildest dreams into reality! 

Find inspiration from our incredible Scholar Showcase from the Girl Meets Code Summer Programme. Explore their coding creations right here!

Now, let’s get to the good stuff! When you code, you’re not just learning a superpower that enables you to use technology to create boring projects. You’re also opening doors to a world full of creativity, puzzle-solving, and making things that nobody’s even thought of. 

Alright, enough of the intro – let’s meet the women who have changed the world through technology. 

1. Ada Lovelace

Ada Lovelace, a super smart math whiz from the 1800s, totally rocked the boat by becoming the world’s first computer programmer. She wasn’t afraid to go against the norm, and her brain was like a sponge for all things cool and curious. She teamed up with Charles Babbage to create something called the Analytical Engine, which was like the grandparent of modern computers. But get this – Ada saw way more in it than just crunching numbers. 

She believed it could do stuff like make music and create patterns, like a real-life digital wizard! Her awesome ideas and fearless quest for knowledge inspire many girls even today. Ada Lovelace showed us that with determination and a growth mindset, the sky’s the limit regarding tech. Her legacy is a reminder that history’s coolest moments come from people who think outside the box and never stop learning.

2. Grace Hopper

Grace Hopper a groundbreaking American computer scientist who changed the tech world with her awesome work in computer programming. People called her “Amazing Grace,” she was like a tech superhero, always fighting for technology that everyone could use. She did something huge in World War II – she created the first compiler, a program that changes human words into computer language. This made it way easier for people to make computer programs, and it kicked off a new era of friendly computing. She was so amazing that they even called her the “mother of COBOL,” a special coding language that changed how businesses worked.

But that’s not all! Grace Hopper was more than just a tech genius. She had this amazing talent for explaining hard stuff in a fun way. She was a fantastic storyteller, and everyone wanted to learn from her. Her energy and love for her work still inspire many people in the tech world. She showed us that tech is not just about computers; it’s about the cool things people can create with a little learning and imagination.

3. Hedy Lamarr 

Hedy Lamarr, a famous actress during the Golden Age of Hollywood, wasn’t just known for her looks and talent – she was also an amazing inventor. Behind her glamorous movie life, she had a genius brain that changed technology forever. Back in World War II, she teamed up with others to create something called “frequency hopping spread spectrum technology.” It was a fancy idea to stop enemies from messing with radio signals. Even though people initially didn’t pay much attention to her invention, it turned out to be super important for things like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth that we use today.

Hedy Lamarr proved that you can be great at more than one thing. She was both an entertainer and an innovator. Her story teaches us that true greatness can come from unexpected places and that it’s important to see past the surface and discover the hidden talents in everyone. She changed how movies work and how we communicate with technology. Her determination, curiosity, and creative spirit inspire all the inventors and dreamers out there. Hedy Lamarr shows us that when we dream big and explore our interests, we can change the world just like she did.

4. Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson

Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson is a real trailblazer in the world of physics and innovation. She’s the first African-American woman to earn a Ph.D. from MIT, which is a huge deal. Her journey shows you can break through any barrier with hard work, determination and a growth mindset. Her super-smart work in physics helped create new stuff in technology, like patents for better ways of communicating.

But that’s not all – Dr. Jackson is also a leader in promoting diversity. She’s all about making sure everyone gets a chance in STEM fields (that’s science, tech, engineering, and math). She’s a role model for women and people from underrepresented backgrounds, showing them they can totally rock it in tech. Her story proves that education is a superpower and that women can make a huge impact in the world of technology. Dr. Jackson’s journey is about believing in your brilliance and changing the world with your ideas.

5. Dr. Fei-Fei Li

Meet Dr. Fei-Fei Li, a super innovative computer scientist who’s totally shaking things up in the world of artificial intelligence (AI). She’s all about computer vision, which is teaching computers to see like humans. And guess what? She’s not just a tech guru – she’s also a champion for diversity in the tech world. She’s a role model for girls who dream of changing the world through AI.

Dr. Li worked at Stanford University, where she was like the captain of the AI ship, leading a team that’s all about making computers smarter. Her work helped computers recognise images better, which is huge for stuff like self-driving cars and more.

But that’s not all – she’s also a co-founder of AI4ALL, a cool group that’s all about giving everyone a shot at AI education. She’s all about helping underrepresented groups like girls and minorities get into AI and shape the future of tech. Her story is proof that big dreams and tech can create awesome change.

So, what’s the takeaway? 

It’s time to unleash your inner coding superhero! 

These women prove that you’ve got the power to change the game and break stereotypes. Whether you’re into apps, robots, or making the world a better place with your tech skills, there’s a spot for you in this exciting world. 

As we wrap up our journey through the awesome accomplishments of Ada Lovelace, Grace Hopper, Hedy Lamarr, Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, and Dr. Fei-Fei Li, you can see women’s huge impact on the tech world. These trailblazers ignored the rules, broke barriers, and made paths that still inspire many women in technology. If you’re a young girl who wants to follow in their footsteps, you can start by signing up here.

These five amazing women show us that when tech is more inclusive, there’s endless potential waiting to be unleashed. But here’s the thing: even though these women achieved so much, there’s still a shortage of women in tech. It’s important to know that having people from all walks of life is what makes innovation tick. When different perspectives come together, we get fresh ideas, creativity, and solutions that help everyone.

If you’re into tech, there are mentors and support waiting for you on your journey to explore and learn. If you’re interested in getting started with coding, you can join our Girl Meets Code Programme by signing up here! 

Let’s challenge ourselves to dream big, innovate without fear, and pave the way for a tech industry that’s diverse, inclusive, and powerful.

Girl Meets Code: 7 Reasons Every Teenage Girl Should Be Given The Chance & Choice To Learn About Coding & Technology

Girl Meets Code: 7 Reasons Every Teenage Girl Should Be Given The Chance & Choice To Learn About Coding & Technology

#GirlMeetsCode Parents What's new?

A recent study by FFT Education Datalab found that girls make up only 37% of entries in mathematics, 23% in physics, and a mere 15% in computing. 

However, the interesting part is that girls excel in these areas despite these imbalances!

As parents, we have a unique opportunity to empower our daughters by allowing them to learn about coding. This blog will explore seven compelling reasons why every teenage girl should explore the exciting world of coding & technology. 

So, let’s break barriers, defy stereotypes, and inspire a new generation of female coders!

Reason 1: Increasing Demand For Digital Skills Across the UK 

Various industries are increasingly recognising the growing importance of technology. Highlighting this trend to motivate young people, especially girls, to consider coding a valuable skill is crucial.

In today’s digital age, coding & technology play a significant role in almost every aspect of our lives. Advancements in technology are revolutionising industries and reshaping the future of work. This can be seen in various sectors such as healthcare, finance, transportation & entertainment.

As the demand for digital skills increases across the UK, coding has emerged as a key competency. Coding can open doors to exciting career opportunities. Encouraging girls to embrace coding equips them with valuable technical skills. It empowers them to shape the future of our technology-driven world.

Additionally, there is an increasing need for a diverse workforce to meet this growing demand. By encouraging our daughters to explore coding & technology, we can help bridge the gender gap in the tech industry. This ensures that their unique perspectives and talents contribute to building innovative solutions in the future. 

 

Reason 2: Closing The Gender Gap In Coding & Technology. 

A significant gender disparity has long plagued the technology sector. Women are underrepresented in coding and other tech-related fields. This gender gap limits the potential of talented women and hinders the industry’s overall growth and innovation. 

By examining this existing gender disparity, we can shed light on the importance of closing the gap by motivating young girls to be involved in coding. We can create a more inclusive and diverse tech industry that benefits everyone by encouraging and supporting young girls to pursue tech education and careers.

Closing the gender gap in coding & technology is crucial for various reasons. One of the significant benefits is its positive impact on the industry. By encouraging more women to pursue tech roles, we can tap into a vast pool of talent, ideas, and perspectives that have been historically underrepresented. 

More women in tech roles promote diversity and inclusivity and foster innovation and creativity. Women can bring unique problem-solving skills and different approaches to collaboration. Additionally, they can bring fresh insights to the table. This diversity of thought leads to more well-rounded solutions, better products, and improved user experiences. 

Moreover, having a balanced gender representation in tech helps create a more equitable and fair work environment where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and succeed. By closing the gender gap in tech, we can create a brighter future for the industry and society.

 

Reason 3: Building Confidence And Creativity

Coding is not just about writing lines of code; it is a powerful tool that can foster creativity and confidence in young people, especially girls. Engaging in coding activities empowers young girls to think analytically and logically, boosting their confidence and nurturing their creative skills to tackle challenges.

Learning coding can have a transformative effect on young girls, boosting their confidence in various ways. As they acquire new coding skills, young girls gain a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance when they realise they can create something valuable from scratch. 

Additionally, coding allows your teen to unleash their creativity by providing a platform to express their unique ideas and perspectives. By coding their projects, your teen can see their visions come to life, fostering a sense of pride and self-belief. 

If you want to see a few examples of our past students’ work, visit the Girl Meets Code Club site here to see how they brought their ideas and visions to life through coding and building their websites!

Ultimately, learning to code equips young girls with a valuable skillset and helps them develop the confidence to tackle new challenges and pursue their passions fearlessly.

 

Reason 4: Expanding Career Opportunities in Coding & Technology. 

With the rapid advancements in technology, new career opportunities are constantly emerging. Getting your daughter involved in coding can open doors to many tech-related careers. The options are limitless, from software engineering to data analysis and web development to artificial intelligence. 

For example, your teen could become an AI/Machine Learning Engineer, where your teen could be working on building intelligent systems that can learn and adapt on their own. They would be able to develop cutting-edge algorithms and technologies that power self-driving cars and virtual personal assistants or even revolutionise industries like healthcare, finance, or agriculture.

Moreover, your teen has so many opportunities to pursue lucrative careers. Look at the embedded engineering field, for example, where professionals earn an average salary of £71,000. That’s a remarkable 145% more than the UK average salary of £29,000. 

Due to the ever-expanding career opportunities, you can see the long-term advantages of your teenager’s involvement in this field. Through coding, young people can acquire valuable skills that unlock doors to lucrative professions such as software development, web design, cybersecurity, and data analysis.

 

Reason 5: Empowering Girls To Shape The Future

Your daughters can have an incredible impact in shaping the future through coding. Encouraging your daughters to get involved in coding empowers them to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse tech industry.

Girls can bring unique perspectives and fresh ideas that can revolutionise technology use. Imagine the breakthroughs and advancements achieved by having equal representation and input from both genders. Coding skills empower girls to make a positive impact on the world. By learning to code, girls gain the ability to create innovative solutions to real-world problems that matter to them. 

Whether it’s developing mobile applications to promote education, designing websites to raise awareness about social issues, or programming robots to assist in healthcare, coding allows girls to channel their creativity and passion into projects that can truly make a difference. 

By embracing coding, girls can become agents of change and contribute to shaping a better future for themselves and society. 

So, why not encourage your daughter to explore the exciting world of coding and empower her to be a force for good in the world?

 

Reason 6: Promoting Gender Equality

Gender equality is not just a buzzword; it holds immense importance in shaping a fair and inclusive society. When we promote gender equality, we open the doors to a myriad of positive effects in our communities.

Teaching coding to girls breaks gender stereotypes by challenging the notion that specific fields are only for boys. By encouraging girls to explore coding, we are promoting gender equality and empowering them to pursue their interests and aspirations regardless of societal expectations. Breaking the stereotype that coding is a male-dominated field inspires more girls to embrace technology and pursue careers in STEM. This ultimately contributes to a more balanced and inclusive society.

When we encourage young girls to get interested in coding, we equip them with a valuable skill set. This leads to fulfilling careers and financial independence. Girls can break through societal barriers when given equal access to coding education. This gives them the chance to contribute their unique perspectives to the tech industry. This drives innovation and paves the way for more diverse and inclusive technology solutions. By promoting gender equality through coding, we create a world where every voice is heard, respected, and valued.

 

Reason 7: Realising Their Full Potential 

Getting your daughters into coding is about more than just teaching them a new skill. It’s about unlocking their full potential. One powerful way to encourage your girls to code is by increasing their awareness of the abundance of coding programs and resources tailored to them. Numerous initiatives and organisations actively promote girls’ participation in coding.

From after-school coding clubs to online tutorials and coding camps. Several resources provide a supportive and inclusive environment for girls to learn and thrive. By highlighting the availability of these coding programs and resources, we can empower our daughters to explore their passions. This will ignite their creativity and pave the way for a future filled with endless possibilities. Why not allow them to step into this exciting world of coding?

Fortunately, several organisations provide invaluable support and mentorship tailored to encourage more girls to get interested in tech. That’s why we started the Girl Meets Code Programme at GT Scholars. This program has been created to assist girls aged 12-16 in learning about technology and coding. 

The program aims to support girls by boosting their confidence to pursue careers in technology & coding. It also focuses on enhancing their leadership, communication, and soft skills while providing guidance from role models and mentors.

With the Girl Meets Code programme, parents can ensure their girls receive guidance and encouragement to thrive in coding! 

In conclusion, learning coding equips teenage girls with valuable skills. Coding empowers them to be active participants in shaping the future. It also opens doors to exciting career opportunities.

By closing the gender gap in tech, promoting gender equality, and providing resources tailored for girls, we can create a more inclusive and diverse tech industry. Additionally, encouraging girls to learn coding unlocks their potential and enables them to make a positive impact through innovative solutions.

So, let’s empower our young girls and inspire them to explore the exciting world of coding!

Is Your Teen Highly Creative? If So, They’ll Probably Be Good At Coding

Is Your Teen Highly Creative? If So, They’ll Probably Be Good At Coding

#GirlMeetsCode Coding & Technology Parents What's new?

Creativity is not just reserved for artists and designers. In fact, it is a highly valuable skill for coding. Your teen’s ability to think outside the box may be a perfect foundation for becoming a coding prodigy! In the digital era, coding has surfaced as an influential tool for self-expression and problem-solving.  

This blog explores why creativity plays a crucial role in coding. We also explore how it can enhance problem-solving, innovation, and overall success in the world of programming.

Are you wondering how your teenager can use their creative skills to excel in coding? Read on!

Creativity and Coding are the Skills of the Future. 

In today’s rapidly evolving world, creativity and coding have emerged as indispensable skills for the future. As a parent, you may wonder how these skills go hand in hand and why they are crucial for your teenager’s success.

Let’s explore the reasons behind the interconnection of creativity and coding and how they can shape your teen’s future: 

First and foremost, coding is a creative process in itself. Contrary to popular belief, coding is not just about writing lines of code. It involves problem-solving, critical thinking, and designing solutions.

Moreover, creativity and coding are mutually reinforcing. Coding provides a platform for creative expression, allowing individuals to bring their ideas to life through technology. 

On the other hand, creativity enhances coding skills by fostering innovative thinking, encouraging experimentation, and pushing boundaries. The synergy between these two skills opens up a world of possibilities for your teen. It enables them to become creators rather than just consumers of technology.

In addition to fostering creativity, learning coding equips teenagers with essential skills for the future job market. Furthermore, as technology advances, the demand for skilled coders is rising across various industries. Introducing your teen to coding gives them a competitive advantage in the job market. Additionally, coding skills are in high demand by employers. By learning to code, your teen will have an edge in the job market.

There is an exciting opportunity to inspire your teenager to embark on this exciting journey of creativity and coding in the FREE #GirlsMeetsCode Programme! Find out more about this exciting opportunity for young girls interested in coding here! 

Furthermore, coding enhances problem-solving abilities and logical thinking, transferable skills applicable to many fields beyond technology. Whether your teen aspires to become an engineer, a scientist, a designer, or an entrepreneur, coding will provide them with a solid foundation to excel in their chosen career.

Ultimately, creativity and coding go hand in hand and are indispensable for the skills of the future. By encouraging your teenager to explore coding, you nurture their creative potential. Additionally, you equip them with valuable technical skills and prepare them for the evolving job market. 

 

Creativity’s Role & Practical Applications in Coding 

When it comes to coding, creativity plays a crucial role that may not be immediately apparent. Unlike in math, where there’s often a single correct answer, coding has endless possibilities and solution paths. This is where creativity and innovation come into play. 

Coders use their creative problem-solving skills to define problems and imagine potential solutions. Just as an author uses pen and paper to create something new, coders use code as their medium to explore different paths and experiment with their thoughts and ideas.

Let’s consider some real-world examples to explain the importance of creativity in coding and how your teen can use their creativity to be successful coders:

Game Development 

If your teen loves video games, you can encourage them to get into coding. You can show them how they can learn to create their own video game through coding! Creativity is essential in crafting a game that stands out and captures players’ interest. They’ll need to develop unique gameplay mechanics, design appealing graphics, and develop engaging storylines.

Aligning your teen’s interest in video games with learning coding can significantly boost their motivation and engagement. This alignment motivates them to learn to code and equips them with the necessary skills to bring their game ideas to life.

Website Design 

You could show them how coding enables them to create and design their own website! If your teen wants to build a website, they’ll need to think creatively about its layout, colour schemes, and user experience. A visually appealing and user-friendly website requires creative thinking and design skills.

Mobile Apps

Another exciting application of coding is the development of mobile apps! If your teen loves spending time on different apps, this could be a great way to motivate them to use their creativity and learn to code! 

Developing a mobile app involves brainstorming innovative features, designing intuitive user interfaces, and creating an enjoyable user experience. Creativity is critical to developing apps that provide unique solutions and engage users effectively.

Robotics

Another great way to show how your teen can use their creative skills in the world of coding is by showing them its use in robotics. Working with robotics involves designing and programming robots to perform specific tasks. Creative thinking is necessary to develop innovative solutions and optimise the robot’s performance.

You can help your teens understand that coding is not just about following rules and instructions by highlighting how creativity can be used in coding. It’s an opportunity to express their creativity, think outside the box, and bring their unique ideas to life through code.

The Competitive Advantage of Creative Coders

Creative thinkers have a unique advantage in the coding field, which is often dominated by analytical thinkers. While analytical thinkers excel at problem-solving and logical reasoning, creative thinkers bring a fresh perspective. 

Their ability to think outside the box allows them to develop innovative solutions that analytical thinkers might overlook. Creativity is crucial in designing user-friendly interfaces, developing engaging applications, and creating visually appealing websites. With their natural inclination towards imagination and originality, creative thinkers can add a touch of uniqueness to their projects, making them stand out in a crowded field.

Moreover, coding is not just about writing lines of code; it’s about creating experiences that resonate with users. Creative thinkers have a deep understanding of aesthetics and human psychology, enabling them to develop user interfaces that are functional, visually appealing, and intuitive. They can bridge the gap between technology and human interaction, making their creations more user-centric. 

In a world where user experience is becoming increasingly important, having a creative mindset gives your teen an edge in coding. By combining their artistic flair with technical skills, creative thinkers can create software and applications that captivate users and leave a lasting impression.

Coding Resources for Creatively Inclined Teenagers

Online Coding Programme That Encourages Creativity

The FREE #GirlsMeetsCode programme is an exciting opportunity for teenage girls between 12 and 16 to use their creative skills to explore the world of technology and coding. Through a series of workshops, participants will delve into the realm of creative coding, discovering innovative ways to use technology to solve real-life problems. 

The programme aims to empower girls by boosting their confidence, developing essential skills like leadership and communication, and providing support from inspiring role models and mentors. No coding experience is required as the girls will receive guidance from knowledgeable volunteers and facilitators. 

Activities will include informative talks on coding and its practical applications, hands-on coding exercises, and the chance to design their own game or app, all while having a ton of fun along the way! 

Tools And Platforms That Support Creative Coding Projects

Introducing your teenager to coding can be a great way to foster their creativity and problem-solving skills. Numerous tools and platforms are available that support creative coding projects, making them fun and engaging for young minds. 

Scratch, for instance, is a visual programming language that allows users to create interactive stories, games, and animations. It provides a user-friendly interface and a supportive community where your teen can share their projects and learn from others. 

Alternatively, another well-known platform, Processing, empowers users to write code to produce visual art, animations, and interactive applications. Processing is an excellent choice for teenagers keen on exploring the artistic aspects of coding.

Additionally, platforms such as p5.js and OpenFrameworks offer a more comprehensive range of advanced options for creative coding. These platforms allow your teenager to experiment with interactive installations, virtual reality, and generative art. Additionally, they also provide a gateway to inspire your teen to delve into the thrilling realm of coding and unleash their creativity in unique and innovative manners.

In conclusion, nurturing creativity in your teen through coding can open doors to endless possibilities for your teen. By encouraging their creative journey in coding, you are supporting their passion and equipping them with valuable skills for the future. 

Remember, the world of coding thrives on innovative thinkers and problem-solving, making it a perfect avenue for your teen to express their creativity. With the potential for a successful and fulfilling career, embracing coding as a creative outlet can empower your teen to shape their path in this rapidly evolving digital era. 

So, take the leap and support your teen’s creative journey in coding today by signing up for the FREE #GirlsMeetsCode programme!

Women Make Up Only 25% of People in the Coding Sector, but Here’s Something You Didn’t Know

Women Make Up Only 25% of People in the Coding Sector, but Here’s Something You Didn’t Know

#GirlMeetsCode Parents What's new?

Several barriers prevent young girls from entering the world of coding or other STEM-related subjects. However, more girls are interested in STEM subjects like science, technology, engineering, and math than before!

According to the UK Parliament Report on Diversity & Inclusion in STEM, at the A level, girls accounted for 44% of all STEM entries and 51% of all science entries in 2022. In fact, there has been a 35% increase in the number of girls taking STEM A-level courses in England since 2010. 

Girls now make up half of the science A-level entries, with a significant increase of around 44% in the number of girls taking biology, chemistry, and physics A-level courses between 2010 and 2022. Approximately 31,000 more girls chose STEM subjects in 2022 compared to 2010. 

However, despite this incredible progress, women still comprise only 25% of the coding sector. Hidden potential, inspiring stories, and unexplored opportunities for girls lie behind this disparity.

As parents, you play a pivotal role in shaping your child’s future, and we firmly believe that nurturing their interests and talents in coding can open doors to limitless opportunities.

Through the Girls Meet Code Programme, we aim to empower young women in coding with knowledge, tools, and support for an inclusive and diverse landscape.

Are you intrigued? Ready to challenge the status quo and participate in this transformative movement? Get started on the journey to help your teen realise their full potential with the FREE #GirlsMeetCode Programme! Find out more here! 

Girls’ Stellar Achievements Outperform Boys in Physics and Computer Science!

The number of women arriving to study computer science in a year has been incredible. The year’s intake has doubled compared to the national average of 16%. 

Over the past few decades, we have witnessed a substantial increase in women pursuing careers in this field. Various factors have attributed to this shift, including improved equality initiatives, tech companies emphasising diversity and inclusion more, and increasing awareness of coding opportunities.

However, there is still a lot of progress toward achieving equality goals in the technology sector. Girls still represent a relatively small percentage of participants in mathematics (37%), physics (23%), and computing (15%). 

Moreover, these disparities are not reflected in academic achievement.

Research conducted by FFT Education Datalab in January 2023 revealed that the variance in average grades between female and male students was most pronounced in physics and computer science, with girls actually outperforming boys! 

What Does This Mean for Your Teen? 

The data highlights the importance of removing perceived barriers for girls because they have so much potential to be successful coders! Parents, educators, and tech companies must work together to create supportive learning environments and provide mentorship opportunities for aspiring female coders. 

How Do You Achieve This? 

A Supportive Environment: Encourages comfort about various career options, including coding. It also ensures that your child feels supported regardless of their chosen path. Role Models – Exposure to successful female coders through books, documentaries, or workshops can inspire and motivate them.

Encourage Hands-On Learning: Engage your child in coding-related activities, online tutorials, and coding clubs to develop their skills and passion for technology. Nurturing an interest in coding is not just about steering our children toward lucrative careers; it goes beyond that. It fosters creativity, critical thinking, and resilience—the traits that will serve them well throughout their lives. It encourages them to think outside the box and to see the world as an interconnected system of limitless possibilities.

A Few Interesting Facts You May Not Know

As parents, you can play a crucial role in empowering your daughters to break free from stereotypes and pursue their passions. Research has shown that a young person’s attitude towards science at school and their parents’ attitudes towards science strongly influence their aspirations in science. 

Similarly, when it comes to physics, parents’ enjoyment of the subject, perception of their child’s academic abilities, and belief in the subject’s career prospects are key factors in determining whether their child will pursue physics post-16.

Moreover, parents’ expectations and attitudes towards their child’s future occupation have long-lasting effects. Studies have demonstrated that parents’ expectations at age 15 are linked to their children’s aspirations at age 17. Additionally, it was found that their job expectations at age 17 are associated with their child’s job at age 28.

Additionally, it was found that the parents of girls were less likely to discuss careers in computer science with their daughters than parents of boys.

The Importance of Female Role Models in Coding

As a parent, it is crucial to understand the significance of female role models in the world of coding and technology for our youth. Introducing girls to inspiring female figures in coding can profoundly impact their aspirations and career choices. 

Representation matters. Therefore, successful women in coding positions break gender stereotypes and empower young girls to pursue their passions. Female role models reinforce that anyone can excel in coding regardless of gender. We can encourage children to code with these dynamic role models for a more equitable and innovative future.

Inspiring Success Stories 

Despite the challenges, numerous women have shattered stereotypes and contributed significantly to the coding sector. Highlighting these success stories can serve as a powerful motivation for young girls.

Emily Anderson was born in the UK and is one of twelve women from the WAAC recruited as codebreakers in 1917 – she stayed on after the war in GCCS as its sole female codebreaker. People have described her as ‘among the best cryptanalysts in the world’.

Samaira Mehta is a lot like other kids her age. However, at the same time, one thing also makes this 10-year-old standout. Mehta is the CEO, founder and inventor of CoderBunnyz, a board game that teaches players as young as 4 basic coding concepts. 

Mehta created the board game at age 6½ or 7. She says she found inspiration after her engineer father started teaching her coding. Through her research, Mehta found a gap in the market: a product to assist beginner coders in learning programming.

These inspiring role models share one thing: coding helped open many doors to great opportunities. Therefore, coding is a great way to help young women have successful careers. 

Importance of Coding in the modern world

Coding professionals are no longer limited to working purely in computer science. In today’s technology-driven world, it is at the heart of numerous industries, from healthcare and finance to entertainment and manufacturing. 

Additionally, by learning to code, your teen will gain the ability to think critically, solve problems, and develop computational thinking skills. These skills empower tech careers, fostering versatility and adaptability in an ever-changing job market. Moreover, as automation becomes more prevalent, coding knowledge will be essential, ensuring their employability in the future.

Addressing Societal Challenges: Coding skills can empower girls to address pressing societal challenges and positively impact the world. Many female coders have led in developing tech solutions for sustainability, healthcare, and education in marginalised communities. Girls with coding skills can become influential change-makers for a sustainable, inclusive, and progressive society.

Promoting Gender Diversity in Tech: Increasing the number of female coders is not only about achieving gender equality but also about enhancing the tech industry’s creativity and innovation. Studies have shown that diverse teams bring more inclusive perspectives, resulting in better problem-solving and innovative solutions. Therefore, when women join tech through coding programs, they bring unique insights, driving inclusive product development. This gender diversity in tech can lead to a more balanced and equitable technology landscape.

Are you looking to empower your teen for a successful future in coding? Join the FREE #GirlsMeetCode Programme!

The program helps girls between 12 and 16 learn about technology and coding. We will explore various digital subjects related to creative coding. At the workshops, girls will collaborate and brainstorm ways to use technology to solve everyday issues. They will discover the enjoyable aspects of coding when they employ it to bring ideas to fruition.

This program aims to empower girls to pursue tech careers by boosting self-assurance and confidence in any field. It aims to improve leadership, communication, and soft skills, with guidance and support from role models and mentors.

Pave the way for your child’s bright and promising future with Girls Meet Code! Find out more here! 

 

Girl Meets Code: 7 Skills Your Teen Will Gain From Taking Part In This Programme

Girl Meets Code: 7 Skills Your Teen Will Gain From Taking Part In This Programme

#GirlMeetsCode Parents What's new?

The FREE Girls Meets Code programme empowers girls aged 12-16 by introducing them to technology and coding. The programme aims to boost girls’ confidence in pursuing careers in technology, coding, or any field of their choice. It also focuses on developing their leadership, communication, and soft skills. Role models and mentors will provide valuable support throughout the programme. Find out more here. 

Coding skills are in high demand and are becoming increasingly crucial for future careers.

Coding equips girls with practical tools and fosters critical thinking and adaptability, preparing them for diverse career paths and ensuring their success. The tech sector offers two million job opportunities and actively seeks to enhance workplace diversity by recruiting more women to provide them with rewarding and high-paying tech careers.

According to Lloyds’ 2023 report, women comprise 50% of the UK workforce but hold only about a quarter of tech industry positions. In an increasingly digital world, coding provides a pathway to numerous opportunities and empowers girls to participate in the tech industry. Sign up here to join this FREE exciting programme that helps girls break into the world of technology and coding! 

 

Skill 1: Coding and Programming Skills

Coding and programming skills have become increasingly significant in today’s digital world. These skills empower individuals to understand and navigate the technology-driven environment and open up many opportunities. By learning to code, teenagers can develop problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, and creativity. They gain the ability to create websites, apps, and software, which are in high demand across various industries. 

Participating in the Girls Meets Code programme gives your teen a chance to gain coding skills in a fun, engaging way.

Skill 2: Problem-Solving Abilities

Coding is an excellent way for teens to develop problem-solving skills. The Girls Meet programme allows girls aged 12-16 to develop problem-solving skills through technology and coding. By exploring creative coding and digital topics, girls attending the workshops will learn how to use technology to solve everyday problems. This hands-on experience will show them the fun side of coding and help them understand the practical applications of problem-solving in various areas of their lives.

Moreover, coding teaches teens to seek help when needed, where they learn to give and receive feedback, an essential part of problem-solving. Overall, coding provides teens with a comprehensive set of problem-solving skills that can benefit them in various aspects of their lives.

Skill 3: Critical Thinking Skills

Coding promotes critical thinking, analytical skills, identifying patterns and making connections. Different situations may require various tools, but critical thinking skills are essential in effectively solving problems. Teaching teens coding is a powerful way to develop their critical thinking skills, which will benefit them throughout their lives.

Critical thinking involves examining available information and making judgments based on it. This process is a significant part of coding. Coding entails identifying and analysing problems in data, creating and applying potential solutions, and evaluating the results to determine if the fixes were successful.

In essence, coding is heavily intertwined with critical thinking. The critical thinking skills acquired through the Girls Meet Code Programme are highly transferable and valuable. These skills are essential throughout all stages of life and are continuously practised by coders.

Skill 4: Collaboration and Teamwork

The Girls Meets Code program offers a valuable opportunity for teens interested in coding to foster essential collaboration and teamwork skills. In coding, projects often involve multiple programmers and designers collaborating to tackle various aspects of a problem. 

By participating in this program, teenagers can develop effective communication and task delegation abilities, enabling them to work harmoniously towards shared objectives. Through engaging in collaborative coding experiences, your teen will gain valuable experience in teamwork, enhancing their potential to make meaningful contributions as team members. 

Moreover, collaborative projects encourage teens to effectively manage conflicts and disagreements while also learning to leverage their team members’ diverse strengths and resources.

Skill 5: Creativity and Innovation

Coding is more than just a technical skill; it is a powerful tool that fosters creativity and innovation. In today’s rapidly evolving world, where technological advancements are shaping every aspect of our lives and global problems are becoming more complex, creative problem-solving skills and innovative thinkers are needed. 

The Girls Meets Code program stimulates creativity and innovation by teaching girls how to code. When faced with obstacles in coding, students are encouraged to think creatively and explore alternative approaches, fostering their ability to think outside the box. Through coding, girls learn to think critically, solve problems, and approach challenges from different angles. This process encourages them to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions. 

By nurturing their coding skills, the Girls Meets Code program equips girls with the ability to adapt to the changing world and empowers them to become future innovators and leaders. 

Sign up here! 

Skill 6: Communication Skills

Girls Meet Code programme helps girls develop communication skills by engaging in group coding activities, learning programming languages and developing essential communication skills.

Working together on projects requires effective communication and collaboration, fostering teamwork and interpersonal skills. As the girls brainstorm ideas and discuss solutions, they practice articulating and expressing their thoughts clearly.

The programme also aims to boost girls’ confidence in pursuing tech and coding careers, which involves effectively presenting and communicating their work. The role models and mentors also provide support and guidance, helping girls develop leadership and communication skills.

Moreover, learning programming languages helps in language acquisition as they become familiar with the syntax and logic of coding languages. These skills can be transferred to learning other languages. This is because coding languages also require understanding and applying specific rules and assigning meaning and structures.

Skill 7: Confidence and Empowerment

This programme strives to boost young girls’ confidence and empower them in several ways. Firstly, it aims to increase their confidence in pursuing careers in technology, coding, or any field they choose. Additionally, the programme focuses on enhancing their leadership capabilities and improving communication and soft skills. The programme equips them with the necessary support from role models and mentors. Ultimately, it seeks to create an environment that fosters confidence, empowerment, and personal growth among participating girls.

The Girls Meets Code program acknowledges that girls of all ages can gain valuable insights by connecting with role models from diverse backgrounds in various sectors and industries. This inspires them to dream big and exposes them to different career opportunities. This programme helps promote awareness among young girls to show them the many options available in the technology sector. 

Learning to code empowers girls to understand and navigate the technology-driven world. Additionally, it opens up numerous opportunities for them in various industries. The Girls Meets Code programme helps girls develop critical problem-solving skills and analytical thinking. These skills give your teen the ability to identify patterns and make connections. 

Sign Up Today!

The programme helps girls enhance their communication, task delegation, and conflict management skills. Your teen will gain these skills by participating in collaborative coding projects, making them valuable team members. Coding fosters creativity and innovation, encouraging girls to think creatively and explore alternative approaches. It also helps girls develop communication skills and provides support and guidance, boosting confidence, empowerment, and personal growth.

By developing these skills, young girls can have a successful future with equal opportunities. These skills help your teen navigate the digital world, think critically and creatively, collaborate effectively, and communicate confidently. The Girls Meets Code program empowers girls to pursue passions and achieve goals in tech and beyond.

Sign up today! 

Has Your Teen Signed Up For The Free #GirlsMeetsCode Summer Programme 2023?

Has Your Teen Signed Up For The Free #GirlsMeetsCode Summer Programme 2023?

#GirlMeetsCode Parents

Parents, we have an exciting programme to help young girls explore and learn more about the world of coding!  

A FREE 5-day Summer Programme that helps girls aged 12-16 to develop their skills in coding and technology, connect with role models and mentors, and learn about careers in coding and technology. Sign up here!

What is the #GirlsMeetsCode Programme About?

The programme is designed to help girls 12-16 learn about technology and coding. They will explore various digital topics related to creative coding. Through workshops, they will collaborate to find ways to use technology for problem-solving and discover the joy of bringing ideas to life through coding.

The programme aims to boost their confidence in pursuing careers in tech or any field, enhance their leadership and communication skills, and provide mentorship from role models. No prior coding experience is required as volunteers and facilitators will guide them through the content. Activities include introductory talks on coding, hands-on coding exercises, and the chance to design games or apps while having fun! Find out more here. 

Are You Aware Of The Significant Shortage Of Tech Skills In The UK? 

The technology industry is rapidly expanding due to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, offering lucrative careers with an average salary of around £45,000 per year.

There are approximately 2 million job openings in technology, and employers actively strive for greater diversity within their organisations. Specifically, they are eager to hire more women for challenging and well-compensated roles in the technology sector.

So, What Does This Mean For Your Teenager?

It means that NOW is the perfect time for your teen to develop their tech skills and explore the exciting career prospects in the technology industry!

And what better way to accomplish this than by enrolling your teen in the captivating #GirlMeetsCode Summer Programme? 

The programme will be held in person in London. However, there will be an online version for those who cannot join us in person.

Applications are closing on Tuesday 25th July 2023. 

If you haven’t yet applied to the #GirlMeetsCode Summer Programme, apply soon.

The Power of Parents in Shaping Girls’ Coding Ambitions

Parents have a significant impact on their children’s aspirations, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Studies have shown that a young person’s attitude towards science at school and their parents’ attitudes are strongly linked to their interest in pursuing science-related careers. 

Additionally, research has shown that a young person’s science career ambitions are influenced by the family environment. This research highlights how families play a vital yet complex role in shaping these aspirations. 

Why Is It So Important To Get Young Girls Interested In Coding? 

Girls still constitute a relatively small percentage of participants in mathematics (37%), physics (23%), and computing (15%). However, these disparities do not translate into differences in achievement.

A study conducted by FFT Education Datalab in January 2023 revealed that the variation in average grades between female and male students was most significant in physics and computer science. The study found that the girls were outperforming the boys.

Despite this variation, women occupy only 24% of positions within the technology sector. This is a significant gap, considering women make up half of the UK workforce, according to Lloyds’ report in 2023.

Encouraging young girls to pursue coding creates opportunities for them to thrive professionally while helping companies build diverse teams. By enrolling your daughter in #GirlsMeetsCode, you contribute to fostering gender equality within the tech industry.

Don’t miss this incredible chance to empower your daughter’s future! Sign up for the #GirlsMeetsCode Summer Programme today and watch her unleash her potential in coding and technology.

Remember, applications close on Tuesday 25th July 2023. 

Together, let’s shape a brighter future for girls in tech!

Sign up now!

 

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We’re looking forward to #GirlMeetsCode2020

#GirlMeetsCode BAME opportunities Coding & Technology Corporate Social Responsibility What's new?

GT Scholars presents #GirlMeetsCode

Did you know that the technology sector is one of the fastest growing industries in the world? It’s a highly-paid industry with software engineering ranked second of the 10 highest paying entry level jobs in the UK. There are more than a million people working in this sector in the UK but only 16% are women (data from ONS 2019) and with so many employers looking for more women to apply to their roles, you’ve got to wonder,  why aren’t there more women in technology?

In 2017, we asked some of our girls, why so many young women aren’t considering careers in technology. There were a wide range of reasons but it generally came down to low confidence in their technology skills, not enough role models (that they were aware of) and a lack of awareness of opportunities in this sector.

So we decided to do something about this!
#GirlMeetsCode is a 6-month programme for girls in Years 9 & 10. The programme includes 10 workshop days held in Central London on Saturdays & during half term. Each year, we’ll be working with dozens of girls interested in coding & technology. You don’t need to have any previous experience of coding. All you need is to be open minded and to have an interest in technology. We’re looking for girls that are willing to go against the grain.

As part of this programme, you’ll be building and improving your skills in coding and technology. You’ll get to meet and work with like-minded girls, using your creative skills to solve problems. You’ll be working collaboratively on tech projects. You’ll also get to meet role models and women working in the tech sector. What’s more is that this programme is funded by our partners who are passionate about seeing more girls in tech.

So how do you get started?
There are two intake periods each year. Applications open in January & June each year. You’ll need to fill in a short application form to get started.

To register your interest and find out more about this programme visit www.gtscholars.org

Workshop Facilitator (Coding & Computing)

Workshop Facilitator (Coding & Computing)

#GirlMeetsCode Careers Coding & Technology Paid Roles

Do you have professional experience in coding and computing? Could you support young people with learning how to code?

Are you passionate about equipping the next generation with the skills and strategies needed to succeed?

About us: GT Scholars is a social enterprise that tackles educational inequality by giving ambitious young people the support, skills and strategies they need to achieve aspirations.

We believe that all young people are gifted and talented, regardless of their background. We run workshops, courses and a year long programme for young people aged 11-16. We’re looking for professionals who can deliver impactful workshops to build our scholar’s abilities and confidence in a range of topics.

What makes us different? There are many organisations that offer programmes to improve the life chances of young people. However, our programmes use a unique 3:1 model which means that we’re able to sustainably use our profits to provide additional places on our programmes, to young people from low income homes. 

Our mission is to empower and develop the next generation of leaders and change-makers and we’re looking for workshop facilitators that are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives!

Responsibilities:Facilitators are responsible for designing creative and interactive workshops for our young people, and delivering these workshops with our young people. We run some of our workshops online and other workshops are held in London. All workshops are held during the school holidays and in the evening and on weekends.

The workshop facilitator role is flexible and as part of your role, you may be involved in:

  • Delivering and leading short workshops or courses, on behalf of GT Scholars (Online or offline)
  • Designing engaging, interactive and educational workshops and short courses for young people and ensuring that the content is targeted to suit different abilities and capabilities
  • Running your own bespoke workshops, eg. workshops in coding and technology
  • Managing short activities and Q&A sessions during our workshops
  • Working collaboratively with other event coordinators, volunteers, ambassadors, workshop facilitators and speakers at our events
  • Following the agreed timings and content for workshops and courses

Person specification: As workshop facilitator you will need to:

  • Have passion, knowledge and experience in coding, computing and technology
  • Have strong presentation skills
  • Have strong communication skills
  • Be personable and able to confidently communicate with people from a range of backgrounds and professions.
  • Be passionate and committed to tackling educational inequality
  • Be punctual and organised

Availability: Workshops will take run during the day on school holiday dates, Saturdays or in the evening (5pm-8pm).

Additional information: We will need to conduct reference checks and you will need an Enhanced DBS for this role as you will be working directly with children. We can process this for you or you may submit one if this is less than 2 years old.

Rate of pay: This is a self-employed role. You must be aged 18 or above. Facilitator sessions range from 2 to 6 hours. The rate of pay typically starts from £30-40 per hour plus travel. However, if you are an experienced facilitator and you have your own bespoke workshops, please contact us to let us know your rates.

If this sounds like something you’d be interested in and you have a genuine passion for supporting young people, then get in touch with us by calling 0208 8168066 or filling in the online contact form www.gtscholars.org/contact-us