Tabatha Verbick
Abstract
Computers and technology are a large part of everyone's daily life. So why is there a concern about gender bias against women in technology? Since technology, especially in the form of computers, is such a large part of our everyday lives, women need to have experience with and knowledge of computers and other forms of technology. However, in our school systems, girls and young women are showing less and less interest in higher level computer classes, which leads to a decline in the number of computer-related degrees for women in college.The decline in the number of computer-related degrees obtained by women is not only caused by difficulties in the higher education system, but actually has its roots in the K-12 education system. Since the problems/issues start as early as the elementary level, focusing on encouraging young girls into technology-related areas in the elementary and secondary school systems is very important. However, many of the issues faced by the K-12 system are also present in the post secondary system. In this paper, the focus will be on the K-12 system and possible solutions for that system. Yet, many of the solutions presented for K-12, such as role models and mentors, can also be applied to the post secondary system.
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Index Terms
- Women, technology, and gender bias
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