An evaluation of the effectiveness of the Summer Technology and Engineering Preview at Stout (STEPS) on the perceptions of females in technology of seventh grade girls

Abstract

The purpose of this evaluation was to examine the effectiveness of participation in the Summer Technology Engineering Preview at Stout (STEPS) camps for short-term change of seventh grade girls’ perceptions toward themselves and females in general working in technological fields. Analyses also included the identification of predictor variables that may affect these perceptions. In order to gather the necessary information, a survey was administered to campers who had received parental consent. The survey was given to the campers prior to, and following the week long camp. The survey contained questions designed to evaluate the girls’ perceptions, attitudes, self-esteem, and social support structures. In addition to these, the girls were asked questions about the technical, developmental, and recreational activities they completed during the camp. The seventh grade STEPS camps were held at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of St. Thomas, and Alexandria Technical College. In total, 335 girls participated in the evaluation. The mean age of the participating campers was 11.9 years. Paired samples t-tests showed significant differences between the pre- and post-test survey responses of the campers. Also, multiple regression analysis revealed predictors of girls’ perceptions to females in technological fields and their success in the STEPS camp.