Identifying the impact of the SPIRIT program in student knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions toward computing careers

Declining interest in computing programs nationwide presents a threat to America's security and limits potential for innovation across all domains. One way to address this problem is to remove misconceptions held by the nation's youth about computing, including information about how it positively impacts many subjects and showing them that applying computing can be fun and rewarding. One program at a Midwestern university accomplished this goal through a week-long, residential, summer camp for high school students to educate them about career opportunities and possibilities for people with Information Technology skills. Participants completed a variety of hands-on activities daily, along with listening to work experiences of computing professionals. Feedback collected from the student participants showed that in addition t o raising awareness about computing opportunities, the program increased youth interest in IT, prompted many to enroll in computing/engineering courses, and improved their performance in school. This paper shares details about the program and participant feedback to make a case for offering similar programs to correct the knowledge people have about computing.