Gender Gap in the use of Technology

Gender is both similar to and different from cultural differences. Certainly these are physiological difference between the sexes, but these do not extend to inherent difference in the ability to succeed at school or work. The effect of gender on learning and achievement is constructed by culture. In Western societies, girls are expected to behave more passively than boys. Boys are expected to be active and curious, often to the point of getting into trouble, which is considered normal and acceptable (Schrum & Geisler, 2003). At the same time our culture describes the males’ behavior as assertive and competitive. Females’ behavior is described as collaborative and supportive. The Eastern culture, especially Middle East discourages the males’ ambition to freedom; many things need to be done to free women from oppressed traditions. The issue is the boys are encouraged to develop skills in fields like engineering and computer science whereas girls are often discouraged in these fields. From these differences come disparate approaches to technology. Research conducted by Honey et al. (1991) suggests that males envision technology as a means to gain power and control over the physical universe, while females envision technology as a means to improve communication and collaboration. Girls use computing technology as to accomplish task and boys use computing technology as toys. The situation has changed; girls compete the boys in all fields of education. Many universities have large numbers of girls enrolled in science technology, mathematic, physics and chemistry which considered the most difficult sciences even for boys.See the video below