Phillipps, M.
A New Zealand Initiative to Encourage Young Women in Information Technology
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES AT SCHOOL
Editors: Dagiene V., Mittermeir R.
465-476, 2006
Document type: Article
Language: English
Cited References: 15 Related Records
Conference Information:
2nd International Conference INFORMATICS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS: EVOLUTION AND
PERSPECTIVES
INSTITUTE OF MATHEMATICS AND INFORMATICS, VILNIUS, LITHUANIA, NOVEMBER 711, 2006.
Partners: Seimas (Parliament) of the Republic of Lithuania, Government of the Republic of Lithuania,
Ministry of Education and Science, Centre of IT of Education, Klagenfurt University, Austria,
Publishing House TEV
Abstract:
Not only is the number of students in Information Technology at tertiary level decreasing as the world
demand for graduates increases, but the percentage of women involved is decreasing. The New Zealand
Young Women’s Programming Contest (YWPC), which is believed to have been unique, was an
initiative to attract young women into Information Technology. The contest had a political agenda in
that its rationale was to introduce young women to programming in a supportive non-masculine
environment. There was a deliberate emphasis on participation rather than competitiveness, although
winning was celebrated. The contest is described and evaluated with respect to more recent research
into female psychology as it relates to programming contests. A number of initiatives from other
countries are examined in so far as they may inform the re-instatement of the YWPC. Future
developments of the contest are suggested. The YWPC is still considered worthy of restoration albeit in
a form which both reflects current research into gender-based issues in Information Technology and
changes in Information Technology.
Authors Keywords:
young women, programming, contests
Address:
Phillipps, M., Department of Mathematics, Lynfield College, Auckland, New Zealand
Publishers:
INSTITUTE OF MATHEMATICS AND INFORMATICS, AKADEMIJOS str. 4, LT-08663 VILNIUS,
LITHUANIA
IDS Number:
ISBN: 9955-680-47-4