As a girl mom, I know how important it is to give our daughters every opportunity to explore their interests, build confidence, and see themselves as future leaders. Yet, in fields like science, technology, engineering, and math, girls are still underrepresented. Research shows that by middle school, many girls start to lose interest in STEM—not because they lack ability, but because they don’t see enough female role models or feel like these fields are “for them.” That’s why programs focused on offering STEM for girls are so essential.
Lucky for us, Boolean Girl is here to tell us about their summer camp that creates an environment where girls can experiment, problem-solve, and discover a love for technology in a space designed just for them.
Exploring STEM for girls through the world of AI and robotics at summer camp isn’t just about learning how to code or build a robot—it’s about showing our daughters that they belong in these fields. Boolean Girl, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering girls in computer science and engineering, offers immersive summer camps where middle schoolers can build AI-powered apps, experiment with real-world robotics, and connect with a community of like-minded peers. By giving girls early, hands-on experiences in STEM, we’re opening doors to future careers, boosting their confidence, and ensuring they know that their voices matter in shaping the technology of tomorrow. Keep reading to learn how these camps are inspiring the next generation of female innovators!
Table of Contents
How Summer Camps Help Girls Build Confidence in STEM
How and when to introduce children to artificial intelligence has been a question on the minds of educators and parents for several years now. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent, we need to think about what that means for the upcoming generations, their future careers, and how those careers will shape society.
Boolean Girl offers Artificial Intelligence and Robotics camps for girls in fifth through eighth grades to help address these concerns. By building their own AI apps using machine learning and micro:bits (a programming device like a mini computer), students will gain a better understanding of AI and how machines learn. They will get to experiment with real AI tools and identify ways in which they are already interacting with AI. Over the course of a week, students will be able to demonstrate and explain how computers mimic human intelligence by making “smart” decisions. Most importantly, girls will have fun and build a STEM community while learning and hopefully developing a passion for continuing their STEM education.
Why STEM for Girls Is More Important Than Ever
Why is it so important that girls begin learning about technology including AI and robotics in
elementary school? Many reasons exist, from building confidence to providing more opportunities and showing greater representation. There is currently a 28% gender gap among Gen Z men and women pursuing careers in computer science and engineering, and when diverse viewpoints in these industries do not exist, you get products and services that do not take into account all perspectives. We need more women and other underrepresented groups to pursue careers in these vital tech industries.
This issue translated very directly in the past in the automotive industry. For decades, crash test dummies were based solely on the male body type. Reports have shown that women are more prone to injuries and even death from vehicle accidents; one reason could very well be due to this lack of representation in crash test dummies. Once this issue was realized, manufacturers started scaling down the size of the crash test dummies, but size alone doesn’t necessarily translate to how a woman’s body reacts in a crash. It took a female researcher to correctly identify this issue and develop a more accurate crash test dummy.
Consider how vital that female perspective is when it comes to artificial intelligence and the future of both technology and society.
What makes Boolean Girl different?
Boolean Girl stands out by offering inclusive, hands-on computer science education specifically designed for girls. Their programs are led by female instructors, providing relatable role models that inspire confidence and demonstrate success in STEM fields. This approach creates a collaborative and welcoming environment, making STEM for girls both accessible and enjoyable.
How do I get my daughter involved in STEM?
To get your daughter involved in STEM through Boolean Girl:
- Enroll in Summer Camps: Boolean Girl offers summer camps where girls can learn coding, robotics, and AI in a fun setting.
- Start or Join a Clubhouse: These after-school clubs provide ongoing opportunities for girls to engage in coding and engineering projects collaboratively.
- Utilize Online Resources: Boolean Girl provides virtual classes and a teacher resource hub, allowing for flexible learning at home or in educational settings.
By participating in these programs, your daughter can develop her STEM skills in a supportive environment, fostering both confidence and competence.
Boolean Girl’s STEM camps range from Scratch and Python coding to webpage development to micro:bit engineering and robotics, to artificial intelligence. You can check their website for more details and dates for upcoming camps in Northern VA.
Exploring STEM for Girls Through the World of AI and Robotics at Summer Camp
About Boolean Girl
Boolean Girl is working to diversify STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)
by teaching and inspiring girls, low-income students, and underrepresented youth in grades three to eight through meaningful, hands-on instruction and sustained exposure to computer science and engineering in a collaborative and welcoming environment. Since 2014, the Arlington-based nonprofit has reached over 44,000 girls and other underrepresented students through their summer camps and both in-school and out-of-school programs in the greater Washington, DC area.
Website: https://booleangirl.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/booleangirl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/boolean-girl-1/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/booleangirl
