Started by the Department of Computer Science of the University of Crete, the 1st Summer School in Computer Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, in the framework of the programme “Actions to Promote Gender Equality in the Region of Crete 2018-2020” between Region of Crete, University of Crete (Department of Sociology / Laboratory for Gender & Department of Computers) and the Mediterranean University (Department of Social Work). The Summer School is attended by secondary school (young women) students, in order to get in touch with the scientific fields of Computer Science and Engineering, Technology, Mathematics and other Exact Sciences.
The goal of the summer school is the direct contact of young women with fields of Science that are extremely fast evolving and very promising, providing secondary school students with the appropriate motivation and informing them about the study options and career opportunities in these fields. Through the teaching of selected topics of Computer Science and Engineering and other exact Sciences, the in-depth understanding of topics related to these scientific fields and new technologies is sought. The Summer School will apply the “I learn by experimenting” technique and will choose its subject matter with the aim of familiarizing the participants with aspects of these scientific fields that are expected to have a high influence in the future. The school will also cultivate critical thinking and develop students’ personal and other skills.
Interventions for gender equality and the removal of stereotypes in the context of education, such as the operation of the Summer School in Computer Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, are a priority of the Regional Action Plan 2014-2020 and aim to develop a more positive attitude of young women towards technological sciences. The participation rate of women in these scientific fields is small and the empowerment of women in this direction, especially at younger ages, is expected to enhance their participation in innovation and entrepreneurship.
At the beginning of the Summer School, greetings were addressed by Ms. Vlasaki, Head of the Independent Department of the Regional Social Inclusion Observatory (Region of Crete), Mr. Tsakalidis, Vice Rector of the University of Crete, and the Vice-Chancellor Mr. Panagiota Fatourou Associate Professor of the Department of Computer Science and Scientific Officer of the Summer School. In her inaugural speech, Ms. Fatourou referred to the participation and contribution of women in the field of Science.
The Summer School will last until 3/7/2019 while other similar initiatives are expected to be developed in Crete.
The implementation of the program contract on behalf of the Region of Crete has been undertaken by the Independent Department of the Regional Social Inclusion Observatory. For more information: Katerina Vlasaki (avlasaki@crete.gov.gr), Lila Karali (akarali@crete.gov.gr).
http://www.csd.uoc.gr/~wistem2019
