Question

Computers and Girls 0 The girls in this sixth grade class in East Palo Alto., California, all have the same access to computers as boys. But researchers say, by the time they get to high school, they are victims of what the researchers call a major new gender gap in technology. 1 Janice Weinman of the American Association of University Women Researchers says, "Girls tend to be less comfortable than boys with the computer. They use it more for word processing rather than for problem solving, rather than to discover new ways in which to understand information." 2 After re-examining a thousand studies, the American Association of University Women Researchers found that girls make up only a small percentage of students in computer science classes. Girls consistently rate themselves significantly lower than boys in their ability and confidence in using computers. And they use computers less often than boys outside the classroom. 3 The instructor of this computer lab says he's already noticed some differences. Charles Cheadle of Cesar Chavez School says, "Boys are not so afraid they might do something that will harm the computer, whereas girls are afraid they might break it somehow." 4 Six years ago, the software company Purple Moon noticed that girls' computer usage was falling behind boys. Karen Gould says, "The number one reason girls told us they don't like computer games is not because they're too violent, or too competitive. Girls just said they're incredibly boring." 5 Purple Moon says it found what girls want: characters they can relate to and story lines relative to what's going on in their own lives. Karen Gould of Purple Moon Software says, "What we definitely found from girls is there is no intrinsic reason why they wouldn't want to play on a computer; it was just a content-thing." 6 The sponsor of the study says it all boils down to this, the technology gender gap that separates the girls from the boys must be closed if women are to compete effectively with men in the 21st century. A T

Answer 1

Компьютеры и девочки 0 Девочки в этом шестом классе в Восточном Пало-Альто, штат Калифорния, имеют такой же доступ к компьютерам, как и мальчики. Но исследователи говорят, что к тому времени, когда они поступают в среднюю школу, они становятся жертвами того, что исследователи называют новым серьезным гендерным разрывом в технологиях. 1 Дженис Вайнман из Американской ассоциации университетских женщин-исследователей говорит: "Девочки, как правило, чувствуют себя менее комфортно за компьютером, чем мальчики. Они используют его больше для обработки текстов, а не для решения проблем, а не для открытия новых способов понимания информации". 2 После повторного изучения тысячи исследований Американская ассоциация университетских женщин-исследователей обнаружила, что девушки составляют лишь небольшой процент учащихся на уроках информатики. Девочки неизменно оценивают себя значительно ниже, чем мальчики, в своих способностях и уверенности в использовании компьютеров. И они пользуются компьютерами реже, чем мальчики вне класса. 3 Преподаватель этого компьютерного класса говорит, что он уже заметил.

Answer 2

The Gender Gap in Technology and Computer Usage Among Girls

According to research conducted by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), there is a significant gender gap in technology and computer usage among girls. While girls in sixth grade have the same access to computers as boys, by the time they reach high school, they tend to be less comfortable and confident with computers compared to boys The AAUW researchers found that girls make up only a small percentage of students in computer science classes and consistently rate themselves lower than boys in their ability and confidence in using computers Girls also use computers less often than boys outside the classroom.

Reasons for the Gender Gap

Several factors contribute to the gender gap in technology and computer usage among girls. One reason is that girls tend to use computers more for word processing rather than for problem-solving or discovering new ways to understand information Additionally, girls may have a fear of breaking or damaging the computer, which can make them less willing to explore and experiment with technology Furthermore, girls have expressed that they find computer games boring and prefer content that they can relate to, such as characters and storylines that reflect their own lives.

Implications and Closing the Gender Gap

Closing the gender gap in technology and computer usage is crucial for women to compete effectively with men in the 21st century. It is important to provide girls with opportunities to develop their skills and confidence in using computers and technology. This can be achieved by creating inclusive and engaging content that appeals to girls, as well as providing supportive environments where girls feel comfortable exploring and experimenting with technology.

Conclusion

The gender gap in technology and computer usage among girls is a significant issue that needs to be addressed. By understanding the reasons behind this gap and taking steps to provide girls with equal opportunities and support, we can work towards closing the gap and empowering girls to excel in the field of technology.