Share Paper: Effects of Gaming on the Gender Gap in Enrolling in High School Computer Classes

  1. Susan Rhem-Westhoff, Muskegon Area Career Tech Center, United States
  2. Robert Leneway, Western Michigan University, United States
Friday, November 21 10:30 AM-11:00 AM Royale 4

Abstract: In this study, 176 middle school girls were surveyed to explore possible relationships between their interests in various computer games and their interest in taking computer related classes. Significant relationships were found between their interest in playing “non-violent” social constructive games and in enrolling in Informational Technology classes. Thus, the increased use of “non-violent” games for girls in preK-8 may be a way to encourage more middle school girls to become interested in IT related courses and careers.