Volunteering as a Girls Who Code Instructor: A Journey of Learning and Empowerment
Introduction
As a volunteer instructor for Girls Who Code, I have had the privilege of guiding some of the brightest young minds in computer science and technology. In this article, I will share my experiences as an instructor for the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program and the after-school club, focusing on both the rewarding and challenging aspects of this role. Join me on this journey as we explore how these programs can make a real difference in solving the programming pipeline problem.
The Awesome: A Golden Opportunity for Learning and Growth
1. The Students: Every summer, the program welcomes a diverse group of girls from various backgrounds who are eager to explore the realm of programming. These students are passionate, curious, and enthusiastic, making the learning environment vibrant and engaging. Witnessing their growth and excitement every week is incredibly fulfilling.
2. The Teaching Team: Working alongside teaching assistants (TAs) who share the same passion for programming and student welfare is a true highlight. These TAs are at the beginning of their professional journeys, filled with both excitement and determination. This camaraderie fosters a supportive environment for all involved.
3. The Projects: All activities in the program are project-based, with minimal classroom lectures. This format encourages practical learning and collaboration. Girls work in teams on open-ended projects, and there are no grades to worry about. The pivot in learning topics on a weekly basis keeps the lessons fresh and relevant.
4. Field Trips and Speakers: Some of the most memorable experiences come from the field trips and industry speakers. These visits provide valuable insights and exposure to the tech world, offering students a taste of the career opportunities available in the industry. Interactions with professionals in various roles help shape their future aspirations.
5. Final Projects: The culmination of the summer program is the final project, where girls spend two weeks working in teams, creating innovative and impactful projects. This not only challenges their problem-solving skills but also gives them a sense of accomplishment after eight weeks of hard work and learning.
The Less Awesome: Challenges that Come with the Role
1. OverwhelmingResponsibilities: The day-to-day teaching and advising tasks can be demanding, especially for introverts. Balancing the needs of multiple students and ensuring everyone's progress can be both exhilarating and overwhelming.
2. Imposter Syndrome: Introducing complex programming concepts to beginners can be daunting. It's common for students to feel overwhelmed and hard on themselves when they don’t immediately grasp new concepts. As an instructor, providing reassurance and encouragement is crucial.
3. Systemic Challenges: Handling the day-to-day challenges can be frustrating due to limited support from headquarters. When there's a need for resources, it can take time to get an adequate response. In my experience, there has been progress, but the issue still needs addressing.
Beyond the Program: Solving the Pipeline Problem
1. Understanding the Pipeline Problem: The programming pipeline problem refers to the gender gap in the tech industry, where the number of women entering and staying in tech careers is significantly lower than men. Girls Who Code aims to address this challenge by providing resources and mentorship to more girls, thereby closing the gap and ensuring a more diverse tech workforce.
2. Effectiveness of After-School Clubs: The after-school club program facilitates ongoing learning and engagement, helping to sustain the interest and momentum of the students. By providing a consistent and supportive environment, these clubs can help foster a lifelong passion for programming.
3. Continuous Learning and Development: Regular training and support provided to volunteer instructors can enhance their effectiveness and satisfaction in the role. This is crucial to maintaining the quality of instruction and support provided to the students.
Conclusion: A Rewarding Experience
Volunteering as a Girls Who Code instructor has been a profoundly enriching experience. While the challenges are real, the rewards of seeing students grow, learn, and achieve their goals make the time and effort well worth it. Whether it's the summer immersion program or the after-school club, these opportunities play a vital role in empowering the next generation of tech leaders.
Keywords
Girls Who Code: A non-profit organization that aims to close the gender gap in technology by providing access to resources and opportunities for education and mentorship in computer science.
Programming Education: The process of teaching students how to write and execute computer programs, which is fundamental to many technological careers.
Volunteer Instructor: An individual who teaches and mentors students in various programming projects and activities, often as part of a community-based organization like Girls Who Code.