We live in an innovation economy driven by and dependent on computing and technology. Dr. Fletcher points out: “We’re failing students if we don’t give them the opportunity to learn these skills.” It’s not that all students will become computer scientists. However, an understanding and competency in computer science will narrow the gap between those who become opportunity haves and have-nots. Students who learn to leverage technology to do what they want to do will become the societal “haves,” while the “have-nots” are going to be those that have the world “done to them.” Dr. Fletcher reiterates this point when she stresses, “We need to be giving more students the opportunity to really learn the skills they need to contribute, not just as workers but as citizens in the 21st century. And it needs to be a variety of students.”

Tune in to this episode to hear more about the need for computer science education in our schools and potential ways to expand opportunity, access, and participation in the field. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.