Gender Stereotypes Prevail in ICT: a Research Review

Abstract

This paper surveys the research literature on stereotyping of gender and ICT and how it affects girls' participation in ICT education and work. Gender stereotypes can influence girls' choices over time, reducing their confidence and interest in ICT and turning them away from ICT as an occupation. The stereotypes can give negative messages about girls' aptitude for ICT work and the types of activities, which should interest them. ICT stereotypes are predominantly negative, provide misleading ideas about ICT as a career discouraging both girls and boys, and make the field particularly unattractive to girls. Stereotypes introduced in the family and social environment are often reinforced by images in the mass media as well as widespread education practices. Very few mitigating influences (such as same sex schools) have any impact on these stereotypes.