International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8, honours the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women worldwide. This day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. The theme for 2024 is ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress.’ In recognition of this important occasion, Brainfeed will be highlighting diverse perspectives and insights from women leaders in education.
In this context, we are pleased to present an article below by Parvinder Kaur, TGT (Computer Science), Kundan Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School, Ludhiana, Punjab.
I am a Woman, proud of being born as a Woman. Grateful to the Almighty for my form and existence as a Female. And further more I play the role of a changemaker in the society, I am a teacher. As computer teacher in a vibrant school in Ludhiana, I witness firsthand the power of potential. Every day, I see sparks of curiosity ignite in the minds of my students, both girls and boys. The International Women’s Day compels me to acknowledge that these sparks may not flicker equally for every student. The fire of ambition needs encouragement, and International Women’s Day serves as a potent reminder of the crucial role women play in fuelling this fire, especially for young women.
My perspective on IWD transcends the annual celebration. It’s a continuous conversation, a call to action that resonates throughout the year within the walls of my classroom and beyond. Here are some key ways I believe IWD empowers young women in my role as an educator:
Championing Role Models:
Representation matters. During my lessons, I consciously weave stories of female pioneers in technology and computer science. We explore the groundbreaking work of Grace Hopper, the “Grandmother of COBOL,” . These narratives become powerful antidotes to unconscious bias. By showcasing the achievements of women who have shattered glass ceilings, I plant the seeds of possibility in my students’ minds.
Cultivating a Growth Mindset:
Technology is a field brimming with challenges and problem-solving. I strive to foster a growth mindset in my classroom, one that embraces mistakes as stepping stones to learning. This is particularly important for girls, as societal stereotypes often make them more averse to taking risks. By encouraging them to celebrate “failing forward” and learn from their experiences, I empower them to approach technology with confidence and resilience.
Dismantling Stereotypes:
The digital world is often perceived as a male domain. I actively challenge this stereotype by creating a gender-inclusive learning environment. During group projects, I encourage mixed-gender teams, dismantling the preconceived notion that boys are naturally better at coding or technical tasks. This fosters collaboration and allows girls to showcase their strengths and leadership skills.
Building Confidence through Skill Development:
Equipping students with the tools to succeed is fundamental. I ensure equal opportunities for girls to participate in coding workshops, robotics competitions, and other technology-focused activities. This not only builds their technical expertise but also strengthens their self-belief. As they master new skills and witness their own capabilities, their confidence in the digital realm flourishes.
Fostering a Supportive Community:
IWD is a springboard for fostering a sense of community and support within the classroom. We celebrate the achievements of our female classmates and create a space where girls can share their experiences and challenges without judgment. This creates a network of encouragement and empowers them to lean on each other for support, both within and beyond the classroom walls.
IWD is not just a day for recognition; it’s a call to action for educators like myself to be the change we wish to see. By consciously integrating these practices into our daily interactions, we can empower young women to embrace technology with confidence, challenge the status quo, and become the future leaders in this ever-evolving field. As educators, we have the power to ignite the spark of potential in every student, regardless of gender, and IWD serves as a potent reminder of this responsibility. Let’s continue to champion the voices of young women, not just on IWD, but every day throughout the year, and watch them blaze their own trails in the world of technology and beyond.
