There is a stark gender gap in the study of computer science GCSE and A level as girls continue to be “heavily under-represented” in the subjects.
Furthermore, the number of girls taking a computing qualification at key stage 4 has dropped sharply since 2014.
The latest figures have caused alarm not least because the GCSE in ICT – where female representation is much better – is ending this summer.
The findings are reported in the annual Computing Education Report from the University of Roehampton, which was published on Monday (June 18). It reveals that:
The report – authored by Peter Kemp, Roehampton’s senior lecturer in computing education – points out that female students are much better represented in digitally “creative” qualifications such as iMedia and those available through BTEC, than they are in computer science. Girls are also better represented in GCSE ICT (38 per cent).
Register now, read forever
Thank you for visiting SecEd and reading some of our content for professionals in secondary education. Register now for free to get unlimited access to all content.
What's included:
-
Unlimited access to news, best practice articles and podcast
-
New content and e-bulletins delivered straight to your inbox every Monday and Thursday
Already have an account? Sign in here