Technology in Learning: Narrowing
the Gender Gap?
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University of Botswana, Gaborone, BOTSWANA
Publication date: 2008-10-22
EURASIA J. Math., Sci Tech. Ed 2008;4(3):263-268
KEYWORDS
ABSTRACT
The introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into the school
curricula raised some hopes that it could minimize gender differences in learning. The
interactive nature of ICT materials was believed to provide a favorable environment
especially for girls to learn. This article reports the findings of the study that analyzed
students’ gender differences in learning using computers in Botswana junior secondary
schools in the year 2006. Variables considered were usefulness and enjoyment of using
computers in learning, anxiety in learning when using computers and interaction among
students of both sexes. Data were collected using structured interviews with closed and
open-ended questions, and analyzed using qualitative and quantitative techniques. The
findings of the study indicated that while gender differences existed in anxiety and
usefulness variables, some positive aspects in learning were visible when computers were
used. At the end, suggestions on the way forward are outlined.