Justice in technology policy: A systematic review of gender divide literature and the marginal contribution of women on ICT

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic literature review of available research evidence on marginal participation of women in ICT-related jobs (ICT – information and communication technology). In this study, it has been attempted to identify gaps in these literature studies according to the Global Index of Gender dimensions and briefly has been explained guidelines for policymakers to improve the participation of women in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors follow from the method of (Tranfield et al., 2003) for conducting a systematic literature review (a systematic review means that the research has specific and systematic steps). Then key words were searched and appropriate resources with this study were evaluated. Accidentally, 55 articles in the period 2000 to 2014 were investigated, and articles were reviewed according to the Global Index of Gender dimensions.

Findings

A review of previous studies indicated that despite considerable attention given to open access to information and women’s skills, role of women in ICT has been underestimated. Results indicated that to keep pace with today’s information society, we would have to reinforce knowledge and abilities of women and provide them employment grounds in jobs that require new skills in ICT. To reinforce participation of women in the jobs, we need to invest in education and design policies to increase the number of women in educational courses related to ICTs. Also, we need to promote equal educational opportunities. Libraries are suitable platforms to create bold employment of women in jobs related to ICTs. Because it seems that majority of professionals are women in these places. In current information communities, we have to raise the level of individual development for reaching total development. Thus, women’s progress at professional jobs is needed to remove barriers of creativity and entrepreneurship for women. Also, development of strategies for providing contribution of women in ICT jobs should not be neglected.

Originality/value

This study is the first comprehensive study on the systematic review of the literature in the field of Gender Gap to show marginal participation of women in the ICT-related jobs.

Citation

Yeganehfar, M., Zarei, A., Isfandyari-Mogghadam, A.R. and Famil-Rouhani, A. (2018), "Justice in technology policy: A systematic review of gender divide literature and the marginal contribution of women on ICT", Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 123-137. https://doi.org/10.1108/JICES-06-2017-0038

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