IEEE Technical Community on Software Engineering (TCSE) Supports Coding in Belize
An interview with the minds responsible for fostering love for software engineering in the next generation of computing professionals.
The Michigan State University College of Engineering has partnered with Pathlight International to create the MSU x Pathlight Coding Clubs initiative. This outreach program allows MSU undergraduate mentors to teach computer skills remotely to economically disadvantaged youths living in Belize. IEEE's Technical Community on Software Engineering (TCSE) and their large professional network have generously contributed 20% of the MSU x Pathlight Coding Club funding.
What the Program Offers
The goal of a mentor is to provide a fun and interactive learning experience that empowers girls and boys who would otherwise not have access to many opportunities. Along with access to technological training, girls and boys in Belize will meet role models, including some who are Belizean themselves, who will show them how technical training can transform their lives.
After developing their coding skills, students will participate in an MSU x PathLight Coding Showcase project. Director of Teacher Training for PathLight International Consuelo Godfrey said she is most proud that Belizean students can be exposed to an opportunity like this. She hopes that students will be inspired to pursue careers in STEM.
An Overwhelming Response
The first time MSU x PathLight Coding offered clubs in Belize, they received over 200 applications for the 30 seats they were able to offer. After reaching out to the IEEE Computer Society and other potential donors, they were able to expand the program by 30 more seats. 70 applicants were chosen, and after three and a half weeks of remote sessions, almost 60 were still active in the program.
Overcoming Challenges
Consuelo highlighted one of the principal challenges they faced, saying that many of their participants lack the resources needed to benefit fully from the program. Additionally, students in Belize, especially girls, are not encouraged to pursue a STEM career. But funding and support have helped to change adversity into success. Laura Dillon, Professor Emeritus of Computer Science & Engineering at Michigan State University, welcomes computing professionals and donors alike. The program’s success is leading to rapid expansion, and continual support is needed.
Benefits to Mentors and Students Alike
The program has opened up other opportunities for students, such as enrolling in the International Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program or becoming part of the Legacy Network for students. On the other side, mentors are
able to develop and hone soft skills, such as leadership and communication, that will help them in their own careers. As a result, many have continued on to volunteer in other projects as well.
The seven-week club for 2022 is already underway, promising success thanks to the hard work of those involved and the generous support of donors like TCSE.
We invite you to explore TCSE membership information today.
Read the entire interview with Consuelo Godfrey, Director of Teacher Training, PathLight International, and Laura Dillon, Professor Emeritus, Computer Science and Engineering, Michigan State University regarding the project in Belize below.
