Investigating a measure of computer technology domain identification: A tool for understanding gender differences and stereotypes

Abstract

The aim of this project is to further examine the construct of domain identification (i.e., a person's positive phenomenological experiences with, and perceived self-relevance of, a domain), specifically as it applies to computer technology (CT). The authors model a known measure of math identification to first develop a measure of CT identification. The authors then test whether the new CT identification measure could uniquely explain the relationship between individuals' gender and CT career pursuit, above and beyond math identification. Finally, the authors examine the relationships between men's and women's CT domain identification, their perceptions of the CT field, and their interpersonal orientation to determine whether existing relationships among these variables might explain individuals' willingness to consider a number of CT- and non-CT-related fields. © 2005 Sage Publications.