Analysis of Gender Disparities in Advanced Placement Computer Science: Trends in Participation

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Computer and Internet Applications in Education SIG Poster Session

Abstract

As computer science (CS) becomes increasingly important in today's world, there is an increased effort to teach it in pre-college years. In this context, the Advanced Placement (AP) CS program has been a major path to educating students for future careers in computing. The need for expanding inclusive educational initiatives and for opening new pathways for girls is greater than ever. Due to the fact that participation in AP CS exams is a reliable indicator of future careers in computing fields, there is a strong need to increase the participation of girls in these programs. The objective of this study is to examine trends in young women's participation in AP CS exams over time by analyzing AP CS data.

Authors

• Kadir Bahar, University of Georgia

• Erdogan Kaya, George Mason University

• Xiaolu Zhang, George Mason University