Gender differences in computing: attitudes, use, and stereotypes

This study was designed to determine the grade level at which students\u27 attitudes towards computers begin to change. Application and gender bias towards computers were also examined. To achieve this, a survey was developed and administered to selected students in the third through eighth grades in the Egg Harbor City School District. in addition to the survey, students were asked to draw a computer expert. Comparisons were made between males and females and the elementary and junior high grade levels. Independent t tests were performed to identify significant differences at the .05 level. Significant differences in attitudes towards computers were apparent between female subjects at the elementary level and female subjects at the junior high level. There were also significant differences in attitudes and application between males at the elementary level and males at the junior high level. This study determined the need tor continuing emphasis on promoting equitable computer use at the elementary level. Female role models in computing would be helpful to encourage young girls to pursue careers in computers