Sometimes I still do not see myself as a computer scientist: Negotiating a computer science identity as a Latina undergraduate and youth mentor

Abstract

This study puts forth the counternarrative of the first author Gislaine, a first-generation undergraduate student, Latina, and computer science major. Gislaine participated in a research internship and STEM mentorship program led by the second author, Meredith. Through this program, Gislaine designed and taught CS lessons to predominantly low-income, African-American middle school students over an 8-day urban summer school program. By analyzing Gislaine’s written account of her journey to CS, as well as planning documents and written reflections on her daily experiences mentoring youth, we explore how Gislaine’s intersecting social identities shape her experiences both as a CS learner and as a mentor to youth. Gislaine’s counternarrative illuminates the systems of oppression present in schools and the CS field, while also highlighting Gislaine’s transformative approaches to mentoring students in CS. Gislaine’s narratives emphasize the importance of humanizing CS and leveraging students’ strengths to promote equitable access to CS education. Through her experiences, she underscores the significance of recognizing and addressing systemic barriers, while also advocating for inclusive and empowering educational practices.