Girls in Data Science (GiDS)

With Girls in Data Science, we aim to introduce young girls at Austrian secondary schools to data science. Under the headline “Information is beautiful – Data Science & Arts”, we are creating an artistic approach to mathematics, computer science and statistics to excite and inspire the next generation of (female) data scientists.

The project was launched in 2022 at two secondary schools in Villach (BG/BRG St. Martin and CHS Villach) and was a joint cooperation between arts and mathematics teachers and didactics professors from the University College of Teacher Education Styria. In their work, students merge aspects of mathematics with arts such as creating paintings based on natural fractals i.e., self-repeating patterns like in the romanesco broccoli or in fern leaves. The resulting artworks are presented at the annual Women in Data Science conference in Villach.

• Engaging female secondary students in data science with a hands-on approach that connects science with art.
• Closing the gender gap in data science by inspiring more females to pursue an education and career in mathematics, computer science and data science.
• Building a network of female data scientists that builds on mentoring between established data scientists and prospective talents.
• Empowering young female students by strengthening their hands-on skills.
• Fostering diversity in (data) science.
• Strengthening of the Carinthian economic region by highlighting the attractive professional opportunities with a data science career through engaging with role models.