With the support of Google, ExpandED Schools sought to administer a cross-city survey targeting the presence of Computer Science (CS) programming across K-12 education. Understanding the needs of computer science in the field is crucial towards preparing students for a technology-driven future and ensuring they have the skills needed for high-demand careers. This knowledge can also help identify educational gaps and opportunities, enabling targeted interventions with the ability to enhance learning outcomes and equity. The responses we received from educators will inform advocacy efforts and have the potential to shape future ExpandED Schools STEM programming.
The results of the survey suggest that the demand for computer science education in out-of-school time (OST) programs is significant but underfunded. Our survey revealed that while over 80% of STEM and CS providers offer some form of computer science programming, there is a mismatch between what STEM+CS providers are offering and what is being implemented in afterschool programs. Only 27% of afterschool providers can offer STEM programming consistently, despite reporting strong interest and commitment to offering these programs.
The most commonly identified limiting factors named in the survey were organizational focus on other areas of youth interest and development, understaffing and staffing turnover, insufficient funding to secure appropriate resources and technology, and a lack of educator training to support the facilitation of STEM activities.
To improve these statistics, we can work together by advocating for increased funding from local and federal sources, providing more professional development opportunities for educators, and collaborating with tech companies to donate resources and technology. Afterschool providers and STEM+CS providers agree that current local and federal funding policies are inadequate for supporting quality CS programming.
Additionally, forming partnerships between schools, community organizations, and businesses can create a more sustainable and supportive ecosystem for CS education. These integrated partnerships are critical to ensure alignment with school-day curricula to effectively nurture students’ interest and skills in computer science.
Despite the challenges, there is strong youth interest in CS, with areas like artificial intelligence, algorithms, computer simulation, and data science being particularly sought after. The push for better technology infrastructure and policy advocacy is essential to enhance the reach and quality of CS education in NYC, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to develop crucial skills for their future careers.
To see the complete results of our survey and gain deeper insights into the current state of computer science education in NYC, click here. If you have any programmatic ideas or questions about our findings, email us: [email protected] or [email protected]
