Code equity: keying girls into coding

All around the world, schools are adopting computer science into the curriculum. Districts and Ministries of Education across the U.S. and in countries from England to New Zealand are beginning to require teachers to teach computer programming in grades as early as Kindergarten. While there are several programs and books that exist which focus on the teaching of programming, there’s one important factor that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Gender equity.

Code Equity: Keying Girls into Coding starts with a brief history of the women and men behind the evolution of computer programming, then taking the reader into proven pedagogical practices to create a culture of gender equity in the learning environment. Other topics include curricular integrations for the K-8 educator, tied to both CCSS and ISTE Standards; and empowerment opportunities specifically for girls in an extra-curricular environment. Goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals centers on Achieving gender equality and empowering all girls and women.

In order to reach gender equality, we must first ensure that there is gender equity (that the opportunity to succeed exists). Gender equity is an issue that exists across several tech and STEM-based career fields. We see the headlines on a daily basis and take part in the movements like the latest #TimesUp. The real change in closing the gender gap in these fields begins in how we educate our students. From the teaching practices that we employ to our hiring practices for the educators in these roles. Every little change can make a huge impact on the future.