Women are underrepresented in the field of computer science. The presence of female computer scientists has changed over time, with a downward trend in the past few decades, with only 18% of women compared to men earning their degrees in computer science. Increasing the numbers of female students who pursue computer science not only will lead to gender parity but will help fill the projected job openings in computer science. Based on the high school enrollment in Advanced Placement Computer Science, the gender disparity is present at the high school level in District X. Research was therefore conducted to explore how computer science experiences in lower grades influence male and female students' interest in the subject. Numerous studies at the higher education level have indicated that societal and personal factors contribute to women's lack of interest in computer science (CS), in particular low self-efficacy, and lack of a sense of belonging. However, studies have not been conducted that specifically target middle school females and the relationship among factors including CS experiences in elementary grades, self-efficacy, belonging or acceptance in a group, and interest in computer science. The purpose of this study was to examine the factors that led to the gender gap in computer science enrollment in the district. The study was designed to determine the impact the computer science Project Lead the Way course has on male and female eighth graders. The findings revealed that the course had a positive impact on the students who participated in the study, but this sample was not representative of the whole class. The PLTW CS course cannot yet to be said to increase female interest in computer science, but indications from the data reveal it may if studied more in the future. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]