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In response to the national demand to increase participation in CS, we argue that youth’s interest in computer science (CS) can be sparked by providing them with role models who are relatable and who resonate with their identities. To that end, we developed a mentoring model in which we train high schoolers to be near-peer mentors for middle schoolers learning to program in summer camps. In this paper, we present results from a mixed-methods study where we examined the relationship between mentor relatability and middle school campers’ self-efficacy and interest in CS. Pre- and post-surveys were used to measure campers’ affective outcomes around computing and mentor relatability. In addition, interviews and observations were used to illustrate the mechanisms that led to change in affect. Our findings suggest that mentor relatability is a significant predictor of campers’ self-efficacy and interest in CS. Results from the qualitative data further exemplify how mentor relatability was perceived and manifested in the camps.
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This content will become publicly available on July 1, 2026
MENTORS in CS Program Guide: A Framework for Building Inclusive Mentorship in Computing Education
This guide presents the "MENTORS in CS" program, a comprehensive model for providing sustained support to K-12 computer science (CS) teachers, particularly those new to the field. It details the program's foundational structures, including mentor-mentee partnerships, a community of practice, and continuous research and refinement through design-based implementation research (DBIR). The guide offers actionable insights and reproducible resources, such as program timelines, recruitment materials, and a mentor toolkit, to facilitate the replication and scaling of similar equity-driven mentoring initiatives. Key learnings regarding participant outcomes, mentor training, and adapting the program for diverse educational contexts are shared to aid widespread dissemination and impact.
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- PAR ID:
- 10631791
- Publisher / Repository:
- Computer Science Teachers Association
- Date Published:
- Edition / Version:
- 1
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 1-23
- Subject(s) / Keyword(s):
- mentoring teacher k-12 guide professional development
- Format(s):
- Medium: X Other: pdf
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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