Abstract:

Even with societal advancements in gender equality, female representation in STEM (Science Technology Engineering Maths) remains notably low, especially in the field of engineering. Traditionally, women have been more inclined towards professions centered on helping others, which is reflected in the high number of women in socio-health sectors today. Therefore, initiatives that promote the inclusion of girls in engineering are crucial to building a richer future that brings out the best in every member of society. In this paper, we present the project Women Engineers for Society. This program aims to encourage 12-year-old girls to explore STEM disciplines with applications related to medicine through hands-on robotics experiences based on LEGO kits overseen by primarily female engineering students. The project involves preparing robotics classes, training volunteers to properly guide the girls, selecting the participating schools, and conducting a two-day event where the robotics hands-on classes take place. The event is divided into three phases. Initially, there is a thorough introduction highlighting examples of engineering works in everyday life. Next, robotics lessons are held, accompanied by videos that illustrate the applications of these robots in medicine. Finally, visits to the engineering school laboratories are arranged to link what was learnt during robotics activities with the real-world research conducted by engineers. Upon completing the event, girls stated that the experience was highly enjoyable and especially eye-opening in terms of their perceptions of engineering. They experienced, for the first time, the satisfaction engineers feel in achieving objectives through the fusion of science and technology, resulting in innovations that can positively contribute to society. Women Engineers for Society has shown to have a truly inspiring impact on girls by allowing them to explore the world of engineering in a stimulating and engaging manner. Through this experience, these girls in their first year of high school will have more information when choosing what they want for their future.

Keywords:

Engineering, girls, society, robotics, STEM.