MARIA KLAWE - Mathematics, computers and your daughter's future

Liking and learning mathematics in the intermediate grades is very important in preparing children for careers in science and technology. This is especially true for careers in information technology, one of the hottest fields for jobs for at least the next decade. Acquiring skill and confidence in using computers during these years is also key, and for most children this happens primarily through playing computer games. In recent classroom studies, computer games created by E-GEMS, a UBC research project led by Maria Klawe, have helped both girls and boys to like and learn mathematics. E-GEMS research pays particular attention to girls' interactions with computers because of the low female participation in information technology careers and in programs like computer science and engineering. The talk discusses these issues, and how both game design and the way computer games are used at home and school affect their ability to enhance children's interest and understanding of mathematical concepts.