learn about women in computer science.
Women have played a significant role in the development of computer science since its inception, but their contributions have often been overlooked or marginalized. Ada Lovelace, often considered the world's first computer programmer, wrote the first algorithm to be processed by a machine. Grace Hopper developed the first compiler, a program that translates human-readable code into machine-readable code. Karen Spärck Jones developed the concept of inverse document frequency, which forms the basis of modern search engine algorithms.
Despite these achievements, women remain underrepresented in computer science. According to a 2020 report by the National Science Foundation, women earned only 21% of bachelor's degrees, 25% of master's degrees, and 21% of doctorate degrees in computer science and related fields. The report also found that women hold only 28% of computer and mathematical occupations jobs compared to men.
Efforts are being made to increase the representation of women in computer science. Programs such as Girls Who Code and Black Girls Code aim to introduce young women to coding and technology. Universities and companies are also working to address the gender gap through scholarships, mentorship programs, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.