Improving comfort level of females in the first computer programming course: suggestions for CS faculty

Authors:
Brenda Wilson
Affiliations:
Murray State University, Murray, KY
Venue:
Journal of Computing Sciences in Colleges
Year:
2008

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Abstract

This paper presents several studies and offers suggestions in applying computer-related gender research to the CS classroom. Building confidence and comfort levels and eliminating attribution to luck are discussed. Offering choices for assignments that includes real-world applications (and possibly even mathematical problems) for females and games for males and including these in classroom discussions can be used to spark interest for both male and females. A first assignment, intended to boost comfort level in novices, allows the student to tell about herself and any anxiety about the course and allows for immediate feedback (within the first week of the semester) from faculty. Females prefer collaborative work but not for out-of-class/lab activities because they feel intimidated by the higher percentage of male students in the class. Other suggestions are given to improve participation, retention and comfort level for females.