IMPACT OF A SUMMER MATHEMATICS AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS

摘要

This article discusses the impact of a 5-day residential summer mathematics and technology camp on middle school girls' attitudes and perceived abilities in mathematics and technology. The study sample included 121 Northern Nevada girls who participated in the program during its first 3 years of operation and 25 parents of these girls. Data-gathering measures—the Modified Fennema-Sherman Mathematics Attitude Scale, personal interviews, and participant and parent questionnaires—show that the camp had a strong positive impact on program participants. Key benefits of the program, as well as elements critical to the program's success, are categorized and discussed.