Journal of Women and Minorities in Science and Engineering

ISSN for PRINT: 1072-8325

For Online Access

Best Paper Award Selection - Editorial Board Site

2004, Volume10

Issue 1

102 pages

DOI: 10.1615/JWomenMinorScienEng.v10.i1

Issue price - $42.00

Elizabeth G. Creamer
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and Virginia Tech University, 110 Burruss Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061

Carol J. Burger
Center for Interdisciplinary Studies Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA

Peggy S. Meszaros
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Contrary to prior research, findings from a questionnaire completed by 436 high school, college, and community college students did not reveal significant differences by gender in amount of computer use and the use of most types of computer applications. Men expressed significantly more interest than women in careers in technology but were significantly more likely than women to agree with stereotypically negative statements about information technology (IT) workers. Women expressing passion for or interest in computers used computers more frequently and had more positive attitudes about IT workers than other women but were not significantly more likely to express interest in IT careers. One of the challenges facing the IT field is how to encourage young women who enjoy using computers to think about their enjoyment as the basis for career choices.

DOI: 10.1615/JWomenMinorScienEng.v10.i1.50 Download article, 12 pages

Article price - $35.00

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