Girls and Boys Using Computers

In the May 2006 issue of School-Age NOTES (www.SchoolAgeNotes.com) Georgia Hall reviews research on differences in how boys and girls use computers. Some differences she reported…

• Girls tend to view the computer as a tool and a means to an end; boys are more likely to view computers as toys or extensions of self.
• Boys prefer computer instruction that focuses on programming; girls prefer computer instruction that focuses on application.
• Girls are more practical and instrumental in their approach to computers; male users tend to use a more exploratory approach.
• When working on computers, girls generally prefer to sit down and accomplish a specific task rather than explore technological possibilities.
• Boys spend more of their out-of-school time each day on computers than their female peers. As a result, they exhibit higher self-confidence and more positive attitudes about technology than girls.
• While girls tend to have more computer experience in word-processing, boys tend to use computers more for programming and games.
• Teen girls generally use computers for communication purposes.
• Both boys and girls tend to view software programs as specifically designed for boys or girls, but not both. They tend to select software they believe was designed for their gender, limiting their use and exploration of other forms of technology.

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