Brite began as a pilot 2020, in a partnership with the World Science Festival and The Hello Studios. During the World Science Festival in the summer of 2020, the program provided a high-quality, online suite of activities centered on collaborative learning with female role models.
NGCP revised Brite in 2021, learning from a robust evaluation and consisted of two courses: Art x Science, featuring role models and activities at the intersection of art and science, and Dream Big, Take Risks, featuring role models and activities that introduced girls to pioneering, multi-disciplinary careers in STEM.
Currently, NGCP is studying STEM identity development through the Brite Program via a National Science Foundation award: BRITE Girls Online STEM Practices: Building Relevance and Identity to Transform Experiences, led by Florida State University.
Brite provides a high-quality, online suite of activities centered on collaborative learning and engagement with diverse women role models. A customized online platform has been developed for BRITE, which can be accessed through a 1:1 device, serving as a launching pad for girls to participate in individual, small group, and community-wide activities.
The research component of the project aims to determine how three core approaches to STEM identity development (community-building, hands-on activities, role models), as implemented through the Brite Online Learning Community, influence girls' STEM identity.
Brite Case Study
The Brite Case Study explores how girls derive meaning from an online role model experience, employing a qualitative analysis and an intersectional feminist lens. This study contributes knowledge to the field related to integrating online STEM role models into programming, their potential impact, and key factors to consider to optimize impact.
Brite 2021 Evaluation Findings Report
SJLR Solutions, LLC evaluated the 2021 Brite program. The full report is available for review below.
More Girls Choosing Computer Science Despite Roadblocks
Girls who’ve had mentors are 2.5 times more likely to be confident in their ability to succeed in school and careers. Katarina Lucas, NGCP’s senior program manager, was interviewed about how Brite 2020 focused on building relationships with mentors.