“We planted a seed when we invited girls to Techbridge. Suddenly they believed they had what it takes to be a leader.” - Techbridge teacher
Evaluation Results
Evaluation plays a critical role in the success of Techbridge. Not only does it help validate what we do and how we’re doing it, but ongoing feedback also provides us with important information to continually refine and tweak our programs. Five years of evaluation results have demonstrated Techbridge’s success in several key areas:
- Development of technical skills and aptitude
- Increasing self-confidence and leadership skills
- Promoting greater interest in the fields of technology, science and engineering
Sampling of Results
On post-surveys administered 2006, students attributed the following gains in skills and confidence to Techbridge.
1. Skills Fostered by a Hands-on Approach to Technology, Science, and Engineering
• 97% know more about how things work
• 92% are better at building things
• 93% feel safe trying new things
• 91% are better at putting things together with picture directions
• 89% are better at using tools
• 89% understand how circuits work
• 87% are better at using the computer
• 85% are better at soldering
• 84% are better at PowerPoint
2. Learning to Think/Act Like a Scientist
• 90% feel more confident
• 88% feel more creative
• 89% can work better on group projects
• 88% try harder to overcome a challenge
• 85% are better at problem-solving
• 82% are better at brainstorming
• 76% are more comfortable making presentations
3. Awareness of Career Opportunities in Technology, Science, and Engineering
• 90% know more about different kinds of jobs
• 88% are more interested in working in technology, science, or engineering
• 78% can see themselves working in technology, science, or engineering
Our summer academy, which has targeted largely the same group of girls for the past three years, has also demonstrated tremendous success with 87% of the girls reporting an interest in a career in engineering or science.
Longitudinal Study
We are pleased to announce the commencement of a 3-year longitudinal study beginning in early 2006. We would like to gratefully acknowledge the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation for their generous sponsorship of this valuable study.
