New Books in Science, Technology, and Society Jean J. Ryoo and Jane Margolis, "Power On!" (MIT Press, 2022)
Jun 9, 2025
Jean J. Ryoo, Director of the Computer Science Equity Project at UCLA, and Jane Margolis, Senior Researcher at UCLA School of Education, discuss their graphic novel 'Power On!'. They explore how technology can empower youth, emphasizing accessibility in computing education. The duo addresses the systemic biases in tech, particularly surrounding AI and race, and highlights the importance of diverse voices in the field. Their insights on educational inequities and the need for inclusive narratives make a compelling case for reforming computer science education.
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Inequity in Computer Science Education
- Computer science education reflects and reproduces existing societal inequities.
- It is dominated by men from wealthier backgrounds, often white or certain Asian ethnicities.
Biased Culture Limits Diversity
- Computer science culture has been shaped by adolescent male interests, excluding women and minorities.
- Computer science is wrongly seen as innate talent for some, ignoring lack of access and opportunity.
Students Value Ethical CS Learning
- The Computer Science for All movement aims to increase access to meaningful computer science education.
- Students value learning that connects computing with ethics and social responsibility.