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Digi-Girls open up the IT World

The Digi-Girls Program is run by the TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute (NSI) Women’s Strategy Unit and is one of several programs which aim to improve educational and employment outcomes for women and girls.

Digi-Girls is a 2-day program that focuses on IT skills development to introduce school-aged girls (years 9 through to 12) to a range of technologies used in the workplace.  It encourages young girls who may be apprehensive about the IT industry to familiarise themselves with equipment, learn new skills and investigate industry careers in an adult learning environment.

“With only a few months of mandatory computer training and IT courses chosen as a high school elective, many girls undertake very little IT training in school,” said Robyn Woolley, Northern Sydney Institute’s Women’s Strategy Officer.

“The majority of jobs in today’s workforce require a basic understanding of computers and industry technology,” said Ms Woolley.

“To increase awareness of the types of technology used in the workplace, the Digi-Girls program demonstrates to students the relevance and utilisation of the equipment.

“For example, the Digi-Girls program conducts training sessions on the technology of radio production, film and television production, or graphic design to girls who are interested in journalism,” said Ms Woolley.

High school students come to a TAFE NSW college and work in groups on projects including web design, multi-media, network engineering, animation, film and television, robotics and radio. After the second day of training the girls give a presentation and demonstration session to parents, school and TAFE NSW staff.

By gaining an understanding of how the equipment facilitates a job and through hands on training, students’ interest is enhanced. Ultimately the project is designed to encourage girls to choose IT as an HSC subject. So far the project outcomes have been successful.

The nature and delivery of the course involves a cross section of NSI teaching staff who, through continuous evaluation, contribute to the input and development of the course. Additional involvement and feedback by stakeholders has established a positive profile for the program which is well incorporated into Institute business in the Northern Region.

This program is sponsored by the ACS Women's Board to encourage the entry of women into the ICT industry. The Board sponsors a number of such initiatives around Australia.