Understanding the gap
Research studies and articles that explain the gap
A lot going on on this site - just focus on the article itself that discusses why girls may not be interested in technology and how teachers can engage them.
Check the article, podcast, and video about research into stereotypes of computer scientists and how physical space can influence choices.
Use the About NCWIT menu at the top, and check the Fact Sheet (what we believe, why we exist) and on that page, don't miss the link to the pdf file: By the Numbers (Check out more statistics about Women and IT). Also under the About menu, check the FAQ (why does it matter?).
Closing the gap
Resources to help close the gender gap
sponsored by the Girl Scouts of America; be sure to check out the Discover careers link, and if you like, play the games.
Great resources for understanding the gap and for making a difference in closing it.
Listen to an interview or two - women in IT talking about their careers and what advice they would offer to young girls. Transcripts are available for most of the interviews except for the most recent ones yet to be transcribed.
Click on the Play button on the right (NOT the play the game link) and continue until you can click on the adventure map where you can watch videos - each marked with a flag on the map and roll over the stars on the map as well. Note: works for me in Safari on Mac or in Internet Explorer for Windows - had trouble in Firefox on either.
Check out the DigiGirlz Day and High Tech Camp links at the top.
From Common Sense Media - great set of lessons organized by grade level (elementary, middle, high) to help teach students about gender roles, stereotypes, and their relationship to online media.