Inclusive Coding Perspectives: Youth Insights from Trento

This paper presents an exploratory sociological research study focusing on the perceptions and awareness of coding among youth aged 16 to 24 in Trento, Italy, with an emphasis on gender inclusivity. It combines theoretical and practical perspectives to understand the role of coding in today's knowledge society, focusing on gender dynamics in coding education. Using qualitative methods such as interviews and focus groups, the study involved a gender-balanced mix of students and educators from various backgrounds. It centers on four themes: coding knowledge among youth, the benefits of coding, the effectiveness of coding education, and the role of gamification in enhancing coding awareness. The findings highlight significant gender differences in interest and participation in coding, stressing the need for inclusive teaching methods like gamification to promote coding literacy across genders. The paper underscores the importance of gender inclusivity in computer science education to enhance future digital competencies and employability.
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Acknowledgments: We would like to extend our gratitude to the students from the Qualitative Research courses in the Sociology Department at the University of Trento, under the guidance of Prof. Chiara Bassetti and Prof. Vincenzo D'Andrea, for their contribution to this research: Alice Conati, Giulia Fasoli, Irene Negri, Alessio Roat, Nadia Scatola, and Filippo Tomezzoli. Their engagement in conducting the interviews and coding the results was instrumental to the success of this study.