Discover Computing

Discover Computing is a multi-series program designed to build a deeper and more diverse pool of students pursuing computer science and tech-related fields of study in Illinois.

In the Fall of 2021, the Discover Computing Program launched in partnership with Google.org and Wilbur Wright College to support early high school students in building interest in computing and awareness of pathways into computer science and tech-related careers. To date, the program has reached over 300 youth.

This no-cost program is intentional about serving Black, Latine, female, gender-expansive, and first-generation youth from Chicago Public Schools and Chicago-area districts.

Learn More

Discover Computing IGNITE: Teaching the Machines

Saturday, November 21st, 2026
from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Discovery Partners Institute - 200 S Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL

Join Discovery Partners Institute and become a machine learning engineer by training your own artificial intelligence model using Teachable Machine. Discover how machines learn from example data sets and how the quality of that data impacts the accuracy of the model. During this workshop, students will also investigate important questions about fairness, bias, privacy, and responsibility - through discussion and real-world examples, explore how machine learning and artificial intelligence can impact people's lives and what it means to create technology that is ethical and inclusive!

Get Involved

- Are you a student who would like to learn about tech and connect with practitioners in Chicago’s
  dynamic tech community?
- Are you a parent, teacher, or other caring adult who would like to recommend a student for
  participation in our programs?
- Are you an employer or donor who is interested in supporting our efforts through partnership?
- Sign up for more information! Click here to fill out our interest survey!
Contact the K-12 Student Programs Team at dpi-pttl@uillinois.edu for additional questions or more information!