Encouraging Student Persistence

Graphical Abstract

Abstract

Code Next—Google’s out-of-school computer science program for high school students of color in Oakland, California, and New York City—encourages participants to pursue careers in computer science and related fields. As the research partner with Code Next, the Education Development Center (EDC) interviewed several participants as they advanced through the four-year program. One theme that emerged from those conversations with Code Next participants was a shift in students’ perceptions of failure and their sense of success, confidence, and ultimately their perseverance in the program. When students begin to see coding setbacks as learning opportunities or as an integral part of becoming a programmer, they feel more successful as coders.

Keywords:

• High School
• Informal Education
• Computer Science
• STEM
• Teaching Strategies

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Vanora Thomas

Vanora Thomas ([email protected]) is a researcher at Education Development Center (EDC) in Oakland, California.

Peta-Gay Clarke

Peta-Gay Clarke is a Diversity Manager at Google and the Program Lead for Google Code Next in New York City.