Computer science at post secondary level : why is gender still an issue?

Abstract

The theme of women and Computer Science has given rise to various research accross a number of countries in relation to its effects on academic and industrial sectors. This study aims to look into Maltese post secondary students' perceptions towards Computer Science as a subject and their attitudes towards Computer Science professionals as well as their potential career prospects in this field. The sample consisted of second year post secondary students from two post secondary state schools. The data gathered from the questionnaires and the interviews were analysed and discussed in the form of several reflections which make up this study. A number of interesting findings emerged from this research that reflect upon the appeal of this domain to students and the lack of knowledge that students have about Computer Science and careers in this field. However this was consistent for both males and females, overcoming the gender stereotype in relation to attitudes. However the gender gap in careers and study in Computer Science still exist and this research attempts to propose recommendations to address these issues. Education, awareness and encouragement in the uptake of this subject are amongst the factors which have resulted from this study in order to overcome the gender barriers that seem to be present in this field.