CS Escape

This workshop is for students who are under-represented in computer science based on gender identity including women, non-binary, trans, agender, and Two-Spirit folx, among others. Applicants must be in Grade 8, have an interest in mathematics and computer science, and must currently attend a Canadian school.  

*Why this audience?

Mathematics and computer science are powerful tools, and diversity among mathematicians and computer scientists increases the potential for positive impact. One of the CEMC’s primary objectives is to promote greater gender diversity in mathematics and computer science. The CEMC encourages all people with gender identities under-represented in mathematics and computer science to apply to and participate in all of our events as we endeavour to make our events and accommodations welcoming to people of all gender identities in attendance. 

• The CS Escape program consists of four sessions, each beginning with a lesson introducing participants to important computer science concepts and ending with an opportunity for attendees to ask questions to the highly knowledgeable speakers and facilitators. The workshop culminates in a follow-up challenge where students can put their newly acquired skills to work.   
• By the end of the sessions, participants will have the tools to create a virtual escape room that they can share with others.
• Students are encouraged to sign up with a partner for the workshop, which will give them a preference during the selection process. Students without a partner are also welcome to apply, but they will be placed on a waitlist until spots become available.
• Selected participants will be given a short task designed to introduce them to CoSpaces which they are expected to complete before the first session.
• Everyone who takes part in the workshop will be given a 6-month license for the Pro version of the CoSpaces platform which they can use to explore more at their own pace.

There will be optional virtual session times scheduled in January for participants to join and ask individual questions about the projects they are working on. These sessions will be scheduled before the workshop begins. 

The CS Escape workshop will be held virtually in January.

Each session is held virtually on Zoom from 7:30 p.m. EST until approximately 8:30 p.m. EST.  

Classes will take place over Zoom. Links will be emailed to registered participants closer to the first session date. 

• Applications to the CS Escape workshop in 2026 will open in Fall 2025.
• Selected students will receive an email with instructions on how to access their application details using their email to complete registration and pay the fees. This email will be sent in the second week of December. In case there are spots remaining, waitlisted students will be notified via email and asked to register and pay to join the workshop.  

There is no fee to apply to the workshop. There is a $25 registration fee to be paid after selected applicants have received their confirmation package. Financial support to cover the cost of the workshop may be arranged for students in need. For more information about financial support, please contact Fiona Dunbar.

For any inquiries or questions, please feel free to contact us at cemc.events@uwaterloo.ca