Educational Trajectories of Women of Color Pursuing Computer-Related Education at the Postsecondary Level

• In Event: Roundtable Session 111
  In Roundtable Session: Science, Engineering, and Technology: Changing the Way We Teach and Learn in the Classroom

Abstract

This study investigated experiences of women of color pursuing post-secondary education in computer science and computer-related fields in both online and face-to-face contexts. Participants were 10 women enrolled in computer science or computer-related programs. In-depth interviews analyzed using mixed methods revealed: 1) formative experiences women had with technology, 2) places, people, and educational contexts study participants felt were influential in shaping their educational trajectories, and 3) the role the intersection among their identities, social obligations, and the educational culture of the programs had on their educational experiences with computer science and computer-related disciplines. Results indicate that early experiences, specifically active mentorship and program culture deeply influenced educational trajectories of women of color.

Author

• Sheruni D. Ratnabalasuriar, Arizona State University