“…Successful informal STEM education programs provide girls with learning environments that are physically and psychologically safe spaces where positive social norms, supportive peer and role model relationships, and a sense of belonging are developed (Simpkins, Riggs, Ngo, Vest Ettekal, & Okamoto, 2017). These learning environments support the development of disciplinary competencies, such as efficacy and skill building, by providing time and space for youth to cognitively struggle with ideas, make mistakes, and tinker with technology (Corbett & Hill, 2015; Denner, Martinez, & Thiry, 2017; Gardner‐McCune & Jimenez, 2017; Kafai et al, 2016; Khalili, Sheridan, Williams, Clark, & Stegman, 2011; Rankin & Thomas, 2017; Scott, Martin, & McAlear, 2017; Scott, Sheridan, & Clark, 2014; Simpkins et al, 2017). Youth have opportunities to engage in STEM practices, such as asking questions, communicating ideas, and drawing conclusions from evidence (Brickhouse & Potter, 2001; Carlone & Johnson, 2007; NRC, 2009; Olitsky, 2006; Painter, Jones, Tretter, & Kubasko, 2006; Polman & Miller, 2010).…”