CS for All Is More Inclusive when Students Understand Computing Careers
Efforts to broaden participation in STEM and computing have been in process for decades, yet our technology workforce continues to suffer from a lack of diversity, and the demand for computing jobs continues to significantly exceed the pipeline. Exposure to a breadth of technology careers and access to more engaging career exploration leads to an improved awareness and perception of computing careers, according to new research from Couragion and Oracle Academy.
After exposure to tech careers, students expressed positive or neutral sentiment about tech career pathways 75% of the time. High numbers of students (aged 10 to 16) received a ʻBest Fitʼ for Data, Design, and Product careers. This is especially true for Females and Students of Color, whereby 2 to 3.5X more students received ʻBest Fitsʼ for Data, Design, and Product careers compared to Programming careers.
Based on these findings, if students better understand a broader array of tech career opportunities, the number of students pursuing computer science pathways would be greater. Those charged with postsecondary readiness and student transitions often don’t understand the career opportunities available to our students. The research report is an ‘insider view’ from the student’s perspective about their perception of tech careers and which indicators influence their own quest for occupational identity.
Educators, advocates and career influencers can leverage these research findings to improve their teaching and learning with respect to what inspires individuals and how they select careers. The findings establish that computing careers can be for everyone. Download the full report to learn more.
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CS for All Is More Inclusive when Students Understand Computing Careers
