Program for Gender Equity in Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology (PGE): Girls Online: GO Team!

Chicago Academy Of Sciences, Chicago IL

Investigators

Abstract

Through funding provided by the National Science Foundation, the Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences, in collaboration with El Valor and James Ward School will create Girls Online: GO Team! , an innovative after-school science and technology program that targets girls between the ages of eleven and thirteen living in underserved areas of Chicago. This pilot program will offer engaging science activities and real-world applications to teachhands-on science and technology to approximately 450 girls over a three-year period. Each semester, between forty-five and ninety girls will join the GO Team! at locations in their own neighborhoods. Of the girls who excel in this after-school program, six will be selected every semester to return and team teach with Academy staff to a new group of participating girls. As the girls grow in competency and skills, they can attend a more advanced GO Team! the following semester. The participating girls will attend weekly lab sessions taught by educators and scientists from the Academy, have fun with their families at a Kick -Off celebration and a Graduation Ceremony, learn about science and technology careers during a job shadow day with museum staff and outside professionals, and learn how science and technology impact their everyday lives. Successful women mentors will function as teachers and role models to help build the girls' science knowledge, career choices, and self-esteem.