"Girls don't waste time": pre-adolescent attitudes toward ICT

Relying on naturalistic observation, via video selfdocumentaries, contextual interviews, and focus groups, we explored gender differences in the information and communication technology (ICT) perception and use of United States middle school students. Our study revealed four key dimensions which foreground the significant gender differences in how students of this age approach and interact with technology. These differences should be considered when developing age appropriate technology and education programs. Our later research will explore the relationship among ICT use, self-efficacy, and career choices through a large-scale survey. Keywords User studies, gender differences, ICT perceptions and use, middle school students ACM Classification Keywords

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2006
• Where: CHI
• Authors: Weimin Hou, Manpreet Kaur, Anita Komlodi, Wayne G. Lutters, Lee Boot, Shelia R. Cotten, Claudia Morrell, A. Ant Ozok, Zeynep Tufekci
• Keywords: CHI 2006, Human Computer Interaction, ICT Use, Middle School Students, Significant Gender Differences