Evaluation plays a critical role in the success of Techbridge. Not only does it help validate what we do and how we're doing it, but ongoing feedback helps us to continually refine our programs. Girls, parents and teachers participate in surveys, focus groups, and interviews as part of our evaluation process. Over the years, evaluation results have demonstrated how participation in Techbridge has helped girls in the following areas:

• Developing technical skills and aptitude
• Increasing self-confidence and leadership skills
• Promoting greater interest in the fields of technology, and engineering

Sampling of Results

We distribute pre-surveys at the start of each of our programs, and post-surveys at the end. On post-surveys administered in 2011, students attributed the following gains in skills and confidence to Techbridge:

1. Skills Fostered by a Hands-on Approach to  Science, Technology,and Engineering

•   95% knew more about how devices like simple machines work
•   87.5% felt more confident trying new things
•   87% said they plan to study harder now so they can go to college
•   73% were better at following directions
•   72% said they are better at using new computer programs

  2. Learning to Think/Act Like a Scientist

•   89.3% learned that teamwork improves problem solving
•   84.1% felt more creative
•   82.4% felt more confident
•   56.7% said they speak up in their school classes more than before
•   81.1% tried harder to overcome a challenge and not get frustrated
•   76.6% were better at problem solving

  3. Interest in Career Opportunities in Technology, Science, and Engineering

•   95.6% knew more about different kinds of jobs
•   89.7% believed engineering is a good career for women
•   82.7% said that because of role models and field trips they went on, they are more interested in working in technology, science, or engineering
•   70.7% can see themselves working in technology, science, or engineering

Longitudinal Study

The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation commissioned a three-year longitudinal study that helped us assess the long-term impact of Techbridge on students' academic and career choices. Results from this study show the program's lasting impact on past participants: 82% of respondents reported a greater interest in a career in technology, science and engineering; 86% had more self-confidence; and 87% had more career options because of Techbridge.