Women and Gender Disparities in Computer Science: A Case Study at the University of Padua

Abstract

This research fits into the scenario of gender disparity in STEM disciplines and aims to identify problems, stereotypes, and gender biases, as well as to highlight solutions to promote gender equality within the Bachelor's degree course in Computer Science (CS) at the University of Padua (Italy), considering both the opinions of female and male students. Data collection was carried out through an online questionnaire addressed to students enrolled or previously enrolled in the Bachelor's degree course in CS. The final sample included 167 volunteer participants. The results highlight how girls believe more than boys in the stereotype that women are disadvantaged in the CS field and that their work is not recognized as equal to that of their male colleagues. However, there are encouraging results regarding the decreasing belief that CS is "a man's thing", with a perception of less diffusion among the population. In situations of gender bias, such as feeling devalued and ignored or experiencing sexist comments from fellow students and professors, females report feeling emotionally uncomfortable and not having control of the situation, which could lead them to not react to the discrimination they face. In this scenario, it is important to increase the communicative effectiveness and psychological well-being of female, but also male, students. Finally, several strategies were proposed to promote a peaceful and inclusive university social environment.