An Examination of Gender Differences in Computer Attitudes, Aptitude, and Use.
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| Title: | An Examination of Gender Differences in Computer Attitudes, Aptitude, and Use. |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Kay, Robin H. |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 28 |
| Publication Date: | 1992 |
| Document Type: | Information Analyses Opinion Papers Speeches/Meeting Papers |
| Descriptors: | Adults, Aptitude, Attitude Measures, Cognitive Processes, Cognitive Style, Computer Software, Data Collection, Equal Facilities, Higher Education, Interaction, Microcomputers, Predictor Variables, Qualitative Research, Research Design, Sex Differences, Use Studies |
| Abstract: | Researchers of gender differences in computer-related behaviors have reported a confusing picture. When asked which sex is more positive toward computers, more apt at using computers, and more likely to use a computer, one would be best advised to answer "it depends." It depends on what attitudes you are measuring, what skills you are assessing, what the computer is being used for, and what age group you are sampling. This review offers two suggestions to reduce this confusion. The first is to clean up the data so that we can be sure that the results reported are "real" differences. The second is to switch from a more traditional quantitative, construct-based approach to a qualitative, dynamic approach that looks at processes of human-computer interaction. Several examples of the kind of useful theoretical and practical information that can be gleaned from a more process-oriented style are offered. By addressing process, researchers can address and alter the inequities that exist regarding the use of computers. (79 references) (Author) |
| Entry Date: | 1992 |
| Accession Number: | ED346848 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Researchers of gender differences in computer-related behaviors have reported a confusing picture. When asked which sex is more positive toward computers, more apt at using computers, and more likely to use a computer, one would be best advised to answer "it depends." It depends on what attitudes you are measuring, what skills you are assessing, what the computer is being used for, and what age group you are sampling. This review offers two suggestions to reduce this confusion. The first is to clean up the data so that we can be sure that the results reported are "real" differences. The second is to switch from a more traditional quantitative, construct-based approach to a qualitative, dynamic approach that looks at processes of human-computer interaction. Several examples of the kind of useful theoretical and practical information that can be gleaned from a more process-oriented style are offered. By addressing process, researchers can address and alter the inequities that exist regarding the use of computers. (79 references) (Author) |
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