Who Says Women Can't Be Computer Programmers?: The Story of Ada Lovelace
What’s inside...
Ada Byron, a young girl with a wild and free spirit, is the daughter of the notorious poet Lord Byron. Ada's mother, who values logic and reason, takes her to meet Charles Babbage, a mathematician and inventor who is working on a new machine that can perform calculations. Ada is fascinated by the machine and begins to work with Babbage on it. She becomes an expert in the machine and writes a set of instructions for it, which becomes the first computer program. Ada's work on the machine and her friendship with Babbage help her to see the beauty in logic and reason, and she becomes a pioneer in the field of computer programming.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Ada Lovelace to explore computing?
How do Ada's achievements change your thoughts about who can be a computer programmer?
Can you think of a time when someone told you that you couldn't do something because of who you are? How did that make you feel?
Why is it important to have diverse people in fields like computer programming?
What would you invent if you had the knowledge like Ada did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Ada's journey and the obstacles she faced. Relate Ada’s perseverance to challenges they encounter in their own lives, emphasizing that they can achieve anything regardless of gender or societal expectations. Discuss the importance of diversity in all professions and how different perspectives lead to better outcomes. Lastly, inspire creativity by asking them what they would invent, fostering a can-do attitude similar to Ada Lovelace’s.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: Ada Lovelace exemplifies perseverance by tirelessly working to understand complex mathematical concepts and developing the first computer algorithm, despite societal expectations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist in their educational pursuits and hobbies, even when they find them challenging, understanding that perseverance can lead to great achievements.
Example Lesson: Breaking stereotypes
Explanation: Ada challenges the gender norms of her time, demonstrating that women can excel in fields dominated by men, specifically in science and mathematics.
Real-World Application: This story can inspire children to pursue their interests regardless of gender expectations, and to appreciate the contributions of all individuals in various fields.
Example Lesson: Importance of creativity in STEM
Explanation: The book highlights how Ada’s imaginative thinking was crucial in her development of the first computer program, showing that creativity is not only for the arts.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to approach problem-solving in innovative ways, integrating their creative ideas into subjects like math and science.
Example Lesson: Collaboration enhances success
Explanation: Ada Lovelace worked closely with mathematician Charles Babbage, which emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving scientific breakthroughs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value teamwork and see how collaborating with others can help in accomplishing complex tasks and bringing different ideas together.
Example Lesson: Learning is a continuous journey
Explanation: Ada’s endless curiosity and lifelong dedication to learning show that education does not end with school.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to embrace a love for learning, understanding that knowledge is expansive and goes beyond the classroom.