The Identity and Success of Women in Technology-Related Bootcamps: A Case Study

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 1:30 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Fostering Equity and Identity in Computer Science (Table 13)

Abstract

Women are traditionally underrepresented in the technology workforce, but technology-related bootcamps (TRB) can help. This paper uses the Dynamic Systems Model of Role Identity (DSMRI) to explore the experiences of a woman at the start and immediately after successfully completing a TRB, with the goal of deepening understanding of how identity relates to success in this context. Data was collected through online surveys and two interviews. Results highlight critical aspects of the participant's role identity including the positive impact of support systems, harmony among role identities and previous experiences. This study contributes to the growing literature on TRB, extends the DSMRI into a novel context, and increases our understanding of how identity is intertwined with women's success in technology spaces

Authors

• Samantha Mackie, University of Ottawa

• Jessica Hunter, McGill University

• Sanheeta Shankar, McGill University

• Kristy A. Robinson, McGill University

• Bradley W. Bergey, Queens College - CUNY

• John Ranellucci, University of Ottawa