| Q: |
May my son come? |
| A: |
Yes, but keep in mind that the activities are geared for girls' interests. Today, a lot of technology focuses on the interests of boys, which is one reason boys significantly outnumber girls in elective IT classes in most schools. Computer Mania Day has been established to help girls think about technology both as a career option and as an important part of their education no matter what their career choice. Girls' technology literacy is a real concern. Therefore, many of the hands-on activities are focused on types of things that generally interest girls. |
| Q: |
What kind of food will be available? |
| A: |
Students and adults will be provided a very light meal at the opening (donuts and juice/coffee). During a short break, students will be provided lunch, while adults will be able to purchase a meal. Due to the volume of participants, it will not be possible to accommodate individual dietary needs. If you or your child has restrictions, please plan to bring your own food. CWIT will in no way benefit from the sale of food. Proceeds will go directly toward the cost of meals for participants. |
| Q: |
What is the cost to attend Computer Mania Day? |
| A: |
This event is 100% FREE! In fact, the first 800 students to register and attend will be given free T-shirts and other goodies. Door prizes are also awarded to students, parents, teachers, and volunteers. |
| Q: |
Do I need to stay for the event? |
| A: |
No, but we encourage it! Students should be checked in at the University Center (UC) Ballroom and may be picked up at the Retriever Activities Center (RAC). Children will only be released from the RAC to a parent or guardian. |
| Q: |
If I stay, do I need to register? |
| A: |
Yes. This will help us keep track of total participation and evaluation. |
| Q: |
Will someone be supervising my child? |
| A: |
Absolutely! In fact, we expect to have volunteers in a ratio of one adult to every three to four student participants. The students will be divided into groups of no more than 30 and led by three adults to sessions on campus where a role model and her assistant will teach an hands-on activity or to a lecture hall where students will enjoy a presentation by university students and young women in the industry. The team that will lead the students will consist of at least one UMBC student who knows the campus well and at least one older adult. At least one adult from each team (designated the leader) will have participated in a two-hour training session to make sure they are familiar with the program for the day, their responsibilities, the campus, security procedures, and what to do in the event of an emergency. A health care worker will also be on staff, although we plan very carefully to ensure your child's safety first and enjoyment second. |
| Q: |
Does my child need to bring anything? |
| A: |
Yes, either a signed copy of the photo release or a parent or guardian that can sign the form once here, unless you do not want your child to appear in media related to this event. |
| Q: |
How do I get to UMBC and where do I park? |
| A: |
Directions to the campus are available from this site and from the UMBC website (www.umbc.edu). There will be signs clearly designating available parking on campus once you arrive. |
| Q: |
Is there onsite registration? |
| A: |
Please register online in advance. If for some reason you have not been able to pre-register, you may bring your child on the day and if space is available, we will accept walk-ins on a first come, first served basis. |
| Q: |
How can my company get involved? |
| A: |
Just email cwit@umbc.edu with your interest so that we can follow up with you. You may also call the Center for Women and Information Technology (CWIT) at 410-455-2822. |
| Q: |
I have a question not covered here. Who do I call? |
| A: |
All questions can be emailed to cwit@umbc.edu. You can reach CWIT via phone at 410-455-2822. On the day of the event, you can call Security for emergencies at 410-455-5555. |