Technovation: Global Program for the Development of Technology and Entrepreneurial Skills and Self-Efficacy for Girls

• In Event: 72.045 - Teaching STEM and Data Science Both in and out of Schools

Abstract

Purpose: This presentation will explore findings from research of Technovation, a global technology entrepreneurship program for girls. Seeking to identify impacts of the program on participants’ skills, knowledge and self-efficacy will help inform similar efforts to engage young women, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and developing countries to develop technological literacy, address complex societal issues, and build confidence to pursue careers or advanced education.
Perspective: As the world’s largest technology program for girls, Technovation reached more than 8,000 young women from more than 70 countries in 2016. Because the program is volunteer driven and cross cultural, its implementation and impact in such a wide range of communities can be difficult to assess. By working with the Technovation team to identify program priorities, we are able to better understand the needs of various stakeholders and the benefits to those involved.
Methods: This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, including: post-program survey data including open-ended questions, observations, informal interviews, and a five year retrospective survey administered to project alumni.
Data sources: This research draws on qualitative and quantitative data to understand how participation in Technovation influences participants’ interest in STEM careers, specifically computer science, and impact on self-efficacy. Research also includes survey findings from the perspectives of program coaches and mentors.
Findings: Technovation enhances students’ sense of self-efficacy by scaffolding the development, not only of coding and entrepreneurial skills, but also by empowering girls to identify challenges in their local communities and develop solutions. This approach engages girls with varying interests in STEM, while providing an opportunity to reach those with other strengths or interests (i.e. business, entrepreneurship, addressing social problems). By working in teams with coaches and mentors in an collaborative multi-relational environment, participants learn teamwork, compromise, problem solving, communication and networking skills.
Coaches and mentors provide valuable support and direction for project participants, by encouraging independent thinking, communication and problem-solving skills and serving as role models.
Scholarly Significance: Amid the many technology programs aiming to engage those underrepresented in STEM careers, this work highlights approaches that can be used to reach culturally and geographically diverse audiences, empower girls, and support the development of skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in diverse professional and academic environments.

Author

• Scott Burg, Rockman et al