Computer literacy and gender stereotypes: an investigation among Lithuanian university students

Abstract

The article presents the most significant results of the empirical research (N=1004) into the relation between students’ computer literacy and expression of gender stereotypes. The study showed the very strong gender stereotypes, existing in the university students’ population, related to computer literacy discriminating women. The fact that both female and male students are equally conservative regarding the issue of gender stereotypes suggests that the latter have deep cultural roots. Based on the theory of Social Psychology and Women/ Gender Studies, it can be argued that the conservative gender stereotypes along with other factors contribute to projecting and actually creating the discriminating psychosocial reality, which violates equal gender rights. Big differences on male and female factual computer literacy quality and expression of gender stereotypes stated in our research can be assessed as a negative social practice, which should be considered by educational policy specialists.