The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : Exploring interest in science, technology

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Sep 26, 2006
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Karnataka

Karnataka - Bangalore

Exploring interest in science, technology

Special Correspondent

INNOVATIVE: Students at an EXITE camp in Bangalore

Bangalore: These 35 enthusiastic girls studying in Class IX from 35 schools in Bangalore will get a head start on a technical career when they complete their studies. IBM India Ltd. is conducting Exploring Interests in Technology and Engineering (EXITE) camps for five days starting Monday.

The EXITE Campus events are conducted by the information technology major as an innovative way to introduce girl students in their teens to the promise of technical careers so that they continue taking mathematics and science classes that will position them for future careers in these fields.

The students will work in teams with IBM employee volunteers on innovation projects, allowing the girls to realise the wealth of ideas and talents they possess, which could make a difference.

Each camp will document its innovation by creating a three-dimensional model, blueprint or presentation. The students get a chance to present their innovations to IBM volunteers and executives, who will in turn, provide feedback. The camps are held in cooperation with three schools in Bangalore. The girls are nominated by their teachers and guidance counsellors. IBM hosts the camps with no charges for those selected to attend.

IBM had a reason for these camps, 50 of them being conducted between April and November at IBM locations around the world.

A recent survey showed that girls begin steering away from mathematics and science as early as middle school.

The survey indicated that 75 per cent of the schoolgirls, aged 12 to 17, do not plan to pursue careers in mathematics, science or technology.

Campers learn about technology and engineering through hands-on activities such as how to break down and rebuild computers, constructing web sites, robotics exercises, forensic science projects and human suspension bridges. Many of these fun and interactive activities are found on the IBM's intranet website, which supports volunteerism by employees.

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