Girls can Code - Barbie says so!

Kia ora fellow teachers and digital technology enthusiasts!

Today, I want to share with you my recent experience watching the Barbie movie and how it resonates deeply with my passion for digital technologies and the need to encourage more females into coding and technology fields. As a teacher specialising in digital technologies and media, I couldn't help but notice the parallels between the movie and our efforts to empower girls to embrace coding and technology.

First and foremost, let me gush about the movie itself. I've watched it three times already (since it's release two weeks ago) - once with my daughter, once with a friend, and just recently, I enjoyed it with my husband. Anyone who knows me well enough, will not be shocked to hear that I adore the Barbie movie.  But my love of all things pink and sparkly is not the only reason that I appreciate the movie.  The cinematography and storytelling are remarkable, showcasing how technology can be harnessed to create captivating narratives. In today's blog post, I want to delve into a topic that is close to my heart and share my thoughts on how the Barbie movie holds powerful parallels with digital technologies and the importance of encouraging more females to explore tech-related fields, including coding.

The impactful monologue by America Ferrera's character and Barbie's statement about holding emotions and logic together, becoming stronger in the process are incredibly relevant, not just to our personal lives but also to the field of digital technologies.

In the movie, we witness how Barbie's diverse strengths, both emotional and logical, come together to solve problems and inspire change. Similarly, in the world of coding and technology, we need both creativity and logic to drive innovation. Encouraging girls to embrace their emotions while excelling in the logical aspects of coding can lead to groundbreaking developments in the digital world.

Barbie's journey in the movie mirrors the path of many female students in the technology realm. Oftentimes, girls are just as capable as boys in coding and digital technologies, but they may face societal pressures or stereotypes that discourage them from pursuing these fields. As educators, we have been tirelessly spreading the message that "girls can code" for some years now. The movie reinforces this message, demonstrating how girls can break barriers and excel in any field they choose, including technology.

Drawing more females into coding and technology is crucial for several reasons. Diversity in the tech industry leads to a wider range of perspectives, ideas, and solutions. It fosters an inclusive and creative environment that can address real-world problems effectively. By encouraging girls to explore coding and digital technologies, we can bridge the gender gap and create a more balanced and innovative future.

As educators, it's essential for us to continue promoting digital literacy and providing opportunities for girls to explore coding and technology in a supportive and encouraging environment. We can organise workshops, coding clubs, and other activities that specifically target female students, allowing them to discover their potential and passion for technology.

Let's be inspired by the Barbie movie and its empowering message. Together, we can help our female students embrace digital technologies and show them that they have the strength to conquer any challenge they encounter. By supporting and uplifting our girls, we can create a more diverse and inclusive digital world for all. Together, let's keep spreading the word and empower our girls to believe in their abilities—yes, girls can code!

https://media.giphy.com/media/qLVGt6Go1dQFp4qVcg/giphy.gif

Kia kaha (Stay strong),

Shannon