It is often stated that girls simply don't like computers and that is why they do not tend to stick with computer classes as frequently as boys do.  A lot of this actually has to do with the age children are introduced and the way the programs they use are designed.  Computer games are more geared towards boys than girls, thus girls tend to lose interest faster.  The cultural bias in computer design makes it hard for women to stay in the field or to have desire to do so.  The more open to working with computers girls and other people in general are, the more potential advancement there is in general.  To increase the amount of women interested in the field would also bring out female role models for other young girls to follow and admire so that there is a general sense of open-mindedness to anyone interested in the field.  Teachers should encourage all of their students to get acquainted with technology and enjoy it so that girls and boys are equally interested in the field.  They should integrate a variety of female and male role models and programs wherever possible to avoid going overboard in the encouragement of girls. 

http://www.cew.wisc.edu/equity/gender_equity_in_classroom_compu.htm 

     This site gives numerous ways for teachers to incorporate gender equality into computer classrooms.  There is also some basic information on the gender gap.

http://www.springerlink.com/content/vw2r24lx97t416k3/ 

     This link is to a journal about gender bias and offers strategies for managing it in the classroom.

http://www.edu-cyberpg.com/Teachers/womenspecialedition.html 

     This link provides specifics for teachers of younger grades to encourage girls in computer activities.