Perhaps Its Time for a Fresh Approach to ICT Gender Research?

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the value of the adoption of a feminist epistemology in information, communication and technology (ICT) gender research. Much of the research undertaken in ICT in relation to gender issues adopts a positivist philosophy with some notable exceptions. A feminist research approach is rarely used in ICT gender research. This is despite the fact that it is generally accepted that the ICT workplace is “gendered” and embodies a tacit masculine norm. This paper uses a case study that examines the imbalance in Tasmanian (Australia) ICT workplaces with a particular emphasis on the common characteristics of women currently working within the industry and the factors that could impact on women moving to or being placed in ICT positions. Clearly a research approach that enables the researchers to explore the perspective of the research participant and as a consequence offer some insights into the declining gender balance in the field offers significant benefits. ACM Classification: K7 (The Computing Profession), K7.0 (General).