Understanding the under representation of women in IT: toward a theory of individual differences

ABSTRACT

Among the research challenges in studying the under representation of women in the IT field is that of developing appropriate theory to provide a basis for understanding and explanation about this gender imbalance. At present, there are two dominant theories in the gender literature that are used to explain the participation of women in the IT profession. The essentialist perspective dichotomizes gender based upon the presumption of significant inherent differences between women and men. This view finds the causes of gender under representation in biology. The social construction perspective focuses on the social construction of IT as a male domain, which is interpreted as incompatible with the social construction of female identity. This view finds the causes of gender under representation in the IT sector. The research discussed in this paper is directed at the development of a new theory that focuses on individual differences among women as they relate to the needs and characteristics of IT work and the IT workplace. This view finds the causes of gender under representation in the socio-cultural environment that shapes each woman's gender identity and her professional development, and her individual responses to these influences.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES

Additional Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.4 COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY
  K.7 THE COMPUTING PROFESSION

General Terms:
Human Factors, Management, Theory

Keywords:
IS careers, IS professionals, IT careers, IT profession, IT professionals, IT workforce, diversity, feminism, feminist theory, gender, gender differences, gender equity, gender issues, individual differences theory, theory, women and IT