Women Who Navigated the STEM Pipeline to Computer Science Careers: An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Seventeen
  In Roundtable Session: Navigation and Transformation in Professional Identity Formation (Table 18)

Abstract

The qualitative study utilized the Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis research method to investigate and interpret the influence of the lived experiences of eight women who have successfully pursued and persisted in a computer science career. Social Cognitive Career Theory and Social Role Theory guided the subjective interpretation of societal influences on career preparation and work environment. Five significant themes emerged from the subjective hermeneutic interpretations of the meaning of the participants’ lived experiences. Information from this study may enhance literature and understanding of the experiences of women who navigate the STEM pipeline to enter and remain in computer science careers.

Authors

• Cinda K. Murray, Northwestern High School
  Presenting Author

• Jin Mao, Wilkes University
  Presenting Author