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Article
Technology and Gender Issues: Development and Assessment of a Freshman General Education Course in the College of Engineering
ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition (2007)
  • Patricia R Backer, San Jose State University
Abstract
This class, Technology VS Women, explores the interaction of gender with technology and answers questions such as: Is technology a “male” science? Is modern technology compatible to both male and female users? What does history tell us about the role of women at work relating to technology? The ideas presented in this course challenges some commonly held myths and misconceptions about technology in our society. This course focuses on the technological changes since 1900 and how they have affected both men and women. The effect of cultural biases and perspectives on the working and educational environments also are addressed. This course is part of the Metropolitan University Scholars’ Experience (MUSE) at San Jose State University (SJSU). MUSE courses are designed to help new freshmen make an effective transition into college. Discovery, research, critical thinking, written work, attention to the rich cultural diversity of the campus, and active discussion are key parts of this MUSE course. Technology VS Women has been taught for four years at SJSU. During this time, we have collected yearly assessment data on this course to assure its meets the General Education (GE) Student Learning Objectives.
Keywords
  • gender issues,
  • general education,
  • freshmen,
  • college
Publication Date
June, 2007
Publisher Statement
© 2007 American Society for Engineering Education. 
This article originally appeared in the proceedings of the 2007 ASEE Annual Conference, and can also be found online at this link.
Citation Information
Patricia R Backer. "Technology and Gender Issues: Development and Assessment of a Freshman General Education Course in the College of Engineering" ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition (2007) p. 12.1377.1 - 12.1377.23 ISSN: 2153-5965
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/patricia_backer/14/