Empowering the Next Generation: Code Explorers Closing the Gender Gap in STEM

Recognizing the critical role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in addressing global challenges, this study addresses the persistent talent shortage and gender disparity in these fields. Early intervention is key to increasing female participation in STEM, necessitating initiatives targeting high school students or younger. This work presents “Code Explorers,” a summer camp exclusively for girls, designed to empower them to objectively evaluate their STEM competencies and make informed career decisions. Developed in collaboration with Coder Bloom and the Industrial Engineering Program at Tecnologico de Monterrey, Campus Leon, this free, three-day workshop provided 90 girls from various high schools in Guanajuato, Mexico, with technical education, coding sessions in Python, inspirational talks from successful Latin women in tech, and empowerment activities. The camp aimed to transform participants from mere technology users to creators, innovators, and leaders in the tech industry. The workshop's curriculum combined Python programming lessons, presentations by international tech leaders, empowerment activities, and a programming contest. To gauge the effectiveness of the camp, participants took part in monthly programming contests and completed a survey assessing their STEM competencies and career interests. Remarkably, 76% of the participants expressed interest in pursuing technology or engineering careers. Qualitative analysis of the data revealed a shift in attitudes toward STEM among both students and instructors, as well as a change in the teenagers' self-perception of their STEM abilities. These outcomes are promising for altering high schoolers' perceptions of STEM at a crucial stage in their academic decision-making. The diverse backgrounds and STEM experiences of our participants highlight the camp's success in offering a broader perspective of STEM fields. This experience has equipped them to make informed career choices, recognizing the importance of coding and the array of opportunities in STEM careers. Ongoing participation in international programming contests post-camp fosters a sense of community and mentorship, further aiding their career decisions in STEM. This study showcases an impactful learning experience for girls, fostering their interest and attitudes toward STEM fields and addressing the gender disparity that limits societal progress through technology.