How it work

Technovation is a very practical technology challenge that involves girls from age 10-18, female mentors who are accomplished in technology area, coach, universities, government, international and national nonprofit organizations and corporate partners.

Students: at least one team of 4-5 young women

It is suggested that a team of young women have 4-5 members, but highly motivated teams with less than 3 students are also eligible each school can have multiple teams. A school group of 20+ young women (4+ teams) creates a critical mass and sense of community among students. No prior knowledge of programming needed. Learn more about the expectations of students in “Student Responsibilities” (annex 1).

Public and private elementary and high schools will be targeted to spread the word as well as set up the program in schools where the necessary commitment and support is guaranteed. Technology club, girls club and arts club could be ideal targets to kick of the initiative. It is advisable to find two enthusiastic Student Ambassadors to help recruit students for the program. Teams can create T-shirts table at lunch, and give presentations in classes and after school clubs.

Coach: at least one per school or after school program

Coaches can be male or female, and can teach any subject. Their main role is to recruit students, arrange a place to meet, and support students as they create their apps by leading lessons provided by Technovation. Resources such as videos, PowerPoints, handouts, and articles will be available through the course to help coaches lead teams through Technovation. Learn more about the role of a teacher in “Coach Responsibilities” (Annex 2).

Mentor: at least one per team (ideal but not required)

A woman working in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) or business field acts as a role model for her team. We encourage mentors to act as a project manager who keeps the team focused, on track, and participating. Mentors do not need to be programmers or app developers. Resources such as videos, PowerPoints, handouts, and articles will be available through the course to help mentors lead teams through Technovation. Learn more about the role of a mentor in “Mentor Responsibilities” (Annex 3).

Technology: 1-2 computers per team

It is suggested that each team have access to at least one or two computers (PC or Mac) to program their apps and write their business plans. It is also advisable for teams to have access to mobile devices (phones or tablets) to test their apps during development. If teams are using App Inventor, the mobile devices must be Android. Mobile devices connect with App Inventor using WiFi or a USB cable. If a mobile device is not available, students may use the emulator (virtual phone) provided by App Inventor, though this software is unstable and slated to be discontinued.

Technology company- Corporate Partner:

A technology company will be approached to recruit mentors for the teams, host a daylong field trip for the girls to see what goes on behind the scenes at a technology company and get hands on experience, and meet top level women. Teams can also complete virtual tours of tech companies through videos on the Technovation Course if they are interested in learning about more companies, or if they are not able to attend an in person field trip. The technology companies are also expected to financially support the initiative.

University Partner: University-community partnership

Universities with strong technology and computer science programmes will be approached to host a Girls Make Apps Workshop before the start of the 12week program and identify potential mentors. During the workshop, teams can learn the basics of App Inventor through completing tutorials with the help of college students studying computer science at the university. Both mentors and coaches attend the workshop with their team. Alternatively, a coach or mentor can lead the teams through the App Inventor tutorials at their school or other convenient location.