Bridging the Gap: Engaging Girls in Computing Through Physical Technologies

Parastoo Porhonar, Hasan Kahtan*, Fiona Carroll, Thorne Simon

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This study provides insights into the ways in which physical technologies integrated into engagement activities can potentially enhance girls’ interest in learning computing. Based on a comprehensive review of the literature and studies, we investigated the effectiveness of experimental access and long-term activities, particularly those leveraging human–computer interaction activities. This can be accomplished through advancements in physical computing, gaming, coding, or integrating AI-related enhancements. Tangible AI tools, robots, and intelligent devices may significantly affect user engagement. In addition, the paper discusses how such interventions and activities link real-life connections to programming, provoking girls’ interest, and curiosity also reshaped their attitudes towards computing motivation and boosted their confidence in their ability to think computationally.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication Innovative and Intelligent Digital Technologies
Subtitle of host publicationTowards an Increased Efficiency
EditorsM. Al Mubarak, A. Hamdan
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH
Pages49-62
Number of pages14
ISBN (Electronic)9783031716492
ISBN (Print)9783031716485
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2025

Publication series

NameStudies in Systems, Decision and Control
Volume569
ISSN (Print)2198-4182
ISSN (Electronic)2198-4190

Keywords

  • Access
  • Computing
  • Engagement
  • Girls
  • Impact
  • Interest
  • Learning
  • Long-term
  • Motivation
  • Physical technologies
  • Tangible AI tools

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