Brite Program: An interdisciplinary, innovative program for girls

Overview

Brite is a bold, interdisciplinary STEM program built especially for girls ages 13-16. The first offering of Brite was held from July 13-31, 2020, organized through a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the World Science Foundation (WSF), National Girls Collaborative Project (NGCP), and The Hello Studios. Eight programs were selected, each with 10 - 20 girls: representing 14 states, and four countries.

Central Program Goals: 

• Foster STEM identity: a belief in self, image, and ability 
• Foster STEM agency: decision-making about STEM  
• Foster and engage girls in collaborative learning   
• Build a community of girl learners and a support network among them   
• Spark curiosity and creativity 

Brite provided a high-quality, online suite of activities, consisting of three courses: The intersection of art and science, the strategies of women in risky STEM careers, and the challenges of conducting experiments on the human brain. Each week featured female role model speakers from cutting-edge fields, an opportunity for girls to learn from and interact with STEAM professionals, fostering a dynamic and collaborative learning environment for the Brite community.

The external evaluation conducted by SJLR Solutions LLC revealed significant changes in the self-esteem of the Brite Girl Cohort. There was a 535% increase in agreement with the statement: I feel I am good at science. Evidence of STEM identity development was demonstrated through girls’ comments focused on a characteristic or individual interest in the weekly theme or a particular activity, and girls shared “they felt recognized and validated regarding their STEM interest” (SJLR Solutions LLC, 2020). By the end of Brite, there was a 77% decrease in the number of Brite girls reporting feeling unsure about liking STEM subjects (SJLR Solutions LLC, 2020).

Brite showcased the power of girl-centered, interactive, STEAM programming. Girl learners were at the center of the program’s activities and live speaker sessions, asking questions and sharing insights, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and creativity. During the three weeks of Brite, a supportive and collaborative learning environment was created, and a community of girls gained confidence and built a foundation for decision-making about their futures. The program demonstrates the transformative potential of online STEAM programming in empowering girls to develop STEM identities and agency through interaction with female role models, access to resources, and support.  

Brite 2021 is now accepting applications. Learn more. 

2020 Mini-grant Recipients 

Contact Us 

Please send questions to info@ngcproject.org.