COVID PANDEMIC EXPOSES THE RACIAL DIVIDE IN TECHNOLOGY AND STEM EDUCATION

Jackie Smalls, Chief Programs Officer at Code.org, discusses the racial difference in STEM education and technology in a new edition of the Let’s Talk STEM with Dr. Calvin Mackie podcast. According to her, the COVID-19 outbreak highlighted the disparity between STEM learning options in White neighbourhoods against those in numerous predominately Black and Brown schools across the country.
Smalls tells presenter Dr. Calvin Mackie, “In terms of the gaps, we knew gaps existed, but I think the epidemic really really revealed how huge those gaps were and who truly gets access.” “It’s a pity, too. To ensure that all pupils have access to WIFI, we shouldn’t have to park a bus in a neighbourhood. It perplexes me that we believe this isn’t something that should be available to everyone for free.” Smalls criticises technology corporations, saying that if they want to make a positive impact on society, they should provide Wi-Fi everywhere.