Girls in STEM: A Qualitative Analysis of Factors and Actors Impacting on Girls’ Engagement in International Computer Science Competitions

The study aims to explore the key-factors and influential actors impacting on girls’ participation in international Computer Science competitions and on their overall aspirations in STEM career-paths. By analyzing societal perceptions, self-efficacy, and other social and subjective factors through qualitative analysis, the research wants to uncover both motivators and barriers that shape young women’s interest in scientific fields. The findings will contribute to raise awareness of the social factors fostering the Gender Gap in Computer Science, providing useful insights to shape more inclusive and supportive learning environments for young women in competitive programming. Keywords: STEM literacy, gender equality, inclusive learning, computer science.