University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Women’s sense of belonging in computing education amidst a global pandemic

Porwal, Vinika

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/115357

Description

Title
Women’s sense of belonging in computing education amidst a global pandemic
Author(s)
Porwal, Vinika
Issue Date
2022-04-10
Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)
Kalantzis, Mary
Doctoral Committee Chair(s)
Cope, William
Committee Member(s)
  • Pak, Yoon
  • Montebello, Matthew
Department of Study
Educ Policy, Orgzn & Leadrshp
Discipline
Educ Policy, Orgzn & Leadrshp
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
Ed.D.
Degree Level
Dissertation
Keyword(s)
  • Computing
  • Technology
  • Women in STEM
  • STEM Education
  • Belonging
  • Community
  • Sense of Belonging
  • Stereotypes
Language
eng
Abstract
This descriptive study examined women’s feelings of fit and value in computer science courses amidst the rapid transition to online education necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The qualitative study supplemented previous quantitative research on women’s sense of belonging in computing by deeply exploring the women’s nuanced experiences with gender in face-to-face and online computing education. The findings contribute to educators’ understanding of how best to create inclusive educational environments for women studying computing. Research methods included in-depth, semi-structured interviews and a focus group. Data was coded and analyzed for themes. Women reported experiencing stereotypes about their abilities and micro-aggressions related to gender, in both face-to-face and online course formats. Validation of their competence, inclusive student communities, and positive interactions with students and professors promoted women’s sense of fit in computing. These findings emphasize the importance of gender-inclusive strategies to promote women’s sense of belonging in computing across course modalities.
Graduation Semester
2022-05
Type of Resource
Thesis
Handle URL
https://hdl.handle.net/2142/115357
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 2022 Vinika Porwal

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