Gender Effects in the Stereotyping of those with Different Kinds of Computing Experience

Abstract

Stereotypes of male and female target figures who had experience of either computer programming, word processing or computer games were investigated. Male and female undergraduate respondents were asked to rate them as portrayed in brief descriptions, on the sixteen personality attributes previously used by Siann, Durndell, Macleod, and Glissov in an investigation of stereotypes of male and female computer science students [1]. As found previously, there was no evidence of negative stereotyping: few differences were found between the male and female target figures, and the pattern of ratings was similar for the three computer uses. The results indicated however, that irrespective of the sex of the target figure, stereotyping of the three uses differed according to the sex of the respondent. Females gave higher ratings on attributes reflecting autonomy and congeniality to the figures with programming experience, while males gave these the lowest ratings on the same attributes. The relationship between this finding, the previous computing experience of the males and possible future implications is discussed.

Gender Differences in Computer-related Control Beliefs and Home Computer Use

“…Thus, the mixed gender computer environment could have provided an appropriate context in which to challenge existing gender stereotypes. The results support the conclusion drawn by Siann et al (1988) and Colley et al (1995) that there is little evidence that female use of computer technology is negatively stereotyped, at least among students attending the computer educational learning environment. However, this interpretation is merely a speculation and is based on assumptions about gender stereotypes.…”

“…In order to understand why gender differences occur, researchers have sought an explanation in terms of the perception of computing as a male-stereotyped area of ability and interest which attracts participation by males both at home and at school (Colley et al, 1995). This implies that people are being socialised to believe that computers are more appropriate to males than to females.…”

Commitment to Learning: Effects of Computer Experience, Confidence and Attitudes

“…These studies have examined the relationships between computer use and variables such as demographic background [7], personality characteristics [3]. types and amount of computer experience [S], attitudes [24], stereotypes [25], anxiety [26], teaching methods [27], different learning settings [28], classroom environment [29], commitment to learning [ 131. and knowledge and performance [30]. In general, research demonstrates that exposure to computers is positively related to students' attitudes [4,31,321.…”

Cross-Cultural Comparison of Women Students' Attitudes Toward the Internet and Usage: China and the United Kingdom

“…[10][11][12][13] Most studies found that women's use of and liking for computer technology is less than men in the same context. [14][15][16] Even when given an equal access to computers, women use them less than men.…”

“…[14][15][16] Even when given an equal access to computers, women use them less than men. 10,11 Women are less likely to be attracted to computer courses and computerrelated careers. Some studies 19,20 showed that this phenomenon has not changed during the last decade, although women have more chance to access computers.…”