What Motivates First-generation College Students to Consider an IT Career? An Integrative Perspective

2023 | Communications of the Association for Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Deng, Xuefei (Nancy); Zaza, Sam; Armstrong, Deborah

Abstract: A career in information technology (IT) presents a viable source of economic ad ... Expand

Abstract: A career in information technology (IT) presents a viable source of economic advancement for college graduates, yet ethnic minority students remain underrepresented in the IT workforce. Such underrepresentation is often exacerbated by their first-generation student (FGS) status. It, however, remains unclear what causes the discrepancy between FGSs and their counterparts in terms of their choice to enter into an IT career. To address this gap, this study aims to reveal the factors motivating FGSs to consider an IT career and examines the association of influencing factors with personal and demographic factors (gender, race, ethnicity). This qualitative research overlays capital theory and social cognitive career theory to develop an integrated sensitizing framework and draws on individual difference theory in interpreting the findings. Our analysis of the open-ended narrative responses of 193 surveys collected from a minority-serving university revealed 10 key factors influencing IT career choice. A theoretical model incorporating individual differences, generational status, and environmental influences is proposed to advance the discussion of influencing factors in IT career choice toward further theory building and empirical testing. The paper concludes with implications for motivating the IT career choice of the ethnic minority, first-generation student population. established career theory, premises various forms of capital as enablers of career decisions (Bourdieu, 1986), and has been previously applied in the information systems (IS) literature (e.g., Joshi et al., 2016). This qualitative positivist case study research develops an analytical generalization (Galli, 2011) regarding the IT career choices of ethnic minority college students. This approach is appropriate for identifying the applicability of key constructs for this population as we investigate their IT career choices. This paper proceeds as follows: We describe the context of our investigation in Section 2 and then review research on IT careers, social cognitive career theory, and capital theory, and their use in the IT context in Section 3. In Section 4, we present our research method and illustrate the data analysis procedures, and in Section 5, we detail the results regarding the motivating factors. In Section 6, we discuss the themes that emerge in ethnic minority college students' IT career choice motivations and propose a variance model based on prior research and our empirical findings. We discuss the study's contributions to theory and practice in Section 7, followed by the study's limitations and future research directions in Section 8. Collapse

Topics: IT career self efficacy IT workforce social capital individual characteristic

Methods: case study survey qualitative interview qualitative coding theory development

Theories: individual differences theory of gender difference theory

What Motivates First-generation College Students to Consider an IT Career? An Integrative Perspective

2022 | Communications of the Association for Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Deng, Xuefei (Nancy); Zaza, Sam; Armstrong, Deborah

Abstract: A career in information technology (IT) presents a viable source of economic ad ... Expand

Abstract: A career in information technology (IT) presents a viable source of economic advancement for college graduates, but ethnic minority students remain underrepresented in the IT workforce. Such underrepresentation is often exacerbated by their first-generation student (FGS) status. Yet, it remains unclear what leads to FGSs' IT career choice compared to their counterparts. To address this gap, this study aims to reveal the factors motivating FGSs to consider an IT career and examines the association of influencing factors with personal and demographic factors (gender, race, ethnicity). This qualitative research overlays capital theory and social cognitive career theory to develop an integrated sensitizing framework and draws on individual difference theory in interpreting the findings. Our analysis of the openended narrative responses of 193 surveys collected from a minority-serving university revealed 10 key factors influencing IT career choice. A theoretical model incorporating individual differences, generational status, and environmental influences is proposed to advance the discussion of influencing factors in IT career choice toward further theory building and empirical testing. The paper concludes with implications for motivating the IT career choice of the ethnic minority, first-generation student population. Collapse

Topics: IT career IT workforce self efficacy social capital IT skill

Methods: case study survey qualitative interview qualitative coding theory development

Theories: individual differences theory of gender difference theory

The Development of the Perceived Distinctiveness Antecedent of Information Systems Professional Identity

2021 | Management Information Systems Quarterly | Citations: 26

Authors: Riemenschneider, Cindy; Armstrong, Deborah

Abstract: This study explored the professional identity of information systems (IS) worke ... Expand

Abstract: This study explored the professional identity of information systems (IS) workers and explicated the set of salient characteristics that comprise the perceived distinctiveness of the IS profession. We developed a more complete picture of IS workers' perceived distinctiveness, including its composition and outcomes. The perceived distinctiveness of the IS profession, in turn, contributes to individuals' professional identity. We employed a mixed methods design (qualitative and quantitative) to leverage the strengths of each method.In Study 1, we analyzed transcripts of focus group interviews, using a robust qualitative method-revealed causal mapping. Utilizing the midrange theory that emerged from Study 1, we further explicated and empirically tested it with a quantitative field survey in Study 2. The meta-inference from these relationships can be stated as follows: The occurrence of change within the profession, the facets of knowledge needed, and the continuous refinement and adaptation of the knowledge base within a mentally demanding work context are what make the IS profession distinctive from other professions. Specifically, our findings indicate that the extent of change; the need for continuous learning; the use of creativity and logic to solve problems; the breadth of knowledge, skills, and abilities required; and the level of technology and business integration, time pressure, and stress compose the perceived distinctiveness of the IS professional. Future research might use our findings to incorporate elements of the IS profession into IS-specific theories. Collapse

Topics: IT workforce IT personell turnover knowledge base IT work electronic mail

Methods: focus group qualitative interview mixed method survey factor analysis

Theories: identity theory individual differences theory of gender

Why Are Women Underrepresented in the American IT Industry? The Role of Explicit and Implicit Gender Identities

2021 | Journal of the Association for Information Systems | Citations: 15

Authors: Serenko, Alexander; Turel, Ofir

Abstract: Gender inequality in the IT profession is an acute issue with major individual, ... Expand

Abstract: Gender inequality in the IT profession is an acute issue with major individual, societal, and national implications. In this study, we build on the individual differences theory of gender and IT and extend it to account for subconscious processes that may drive women away from IT university majors and IT career choices. We specifically theorize on how the asymmetric roles of explicit and implicit gender identity facets impact the major selection of men and women students and affect their decisions to pursue the IT profession. To do so, this study introduces the concept of implicit gender identity, defined as the degree to which men and women subconsciously, automatically, and uncontrollably associate themselves with the masculine and feminine gender groups, respectively. We obtained data from 185 pre-major selection university students by means of a survey and the Implicit Association Test. The findings revealed that implicit gender identity was a significant predictor of IT major and career choices for women but not for men university students. Explicit gender identity had no influence on IT major and career choices for men or women university students. Nevertheless, men’s and women’s IT major and career choices appear to be similarly influenced by normative pressures. IT skills and IT work experience also impact such choices. Ultimately, this study shows that implicit gender identity can be a factor that drives women university students away from the IT profession and contributes to the gender gap in the field. Collapse

Topics: IT career IT workforce social norm IT skill IT work

Methods: survey theory development chi squared test SEM tool self reported survey

Theories: individual differences theory of gender behavioral theory dual-system theory

Women entrepreneurs' digital social innovation: Linking gender, entrepreneurship, social innovation and information systems

2021 | Information Systems Journal | Citations: 22

Authors: Suseno, Yuliani; Abbott, Ling

Abstract: This article responds to increasing discourses on digital social innovation (DSI ... Expand

Abstract: This article responds to increasing discourses on digital social innovation (DSI) from the perspectives of women entrepreneurs. Using the individual differences theory of gender and information technology (IDTGIT), this research explores how digital technology is used by women entrepreneurs to create opportunities in response to the challenges associated with individual identity, individual influences, social influences and structural influences. We also extend the IDTGIT by exploring how technology is used by women entrepreneurs in their DSI ventures and how technology facilitates the social impact of such ventures. This paper draws on a qualitative study using interviews with 17 women entrepreneurs in Australia, and our findings indicate that individual identity, individual influences and social and structural influences play a significant role in inhibiting women entrepreneurs' business ventures but technology helps to create opportunities for women entrepreneurs to address these factors. We also found that technology plays a role in helping women entrepreneurs to pursue social innovation in two different ways: through social innovation that is embodied by technology and social innovation that is enabled by technology. Our findings further indicate the social impact of DSI in the areas of education, employment, environment and climate, community development and progress and healthcare. The theoretical and practical implications of DSI for women entrepreneurs are provided. Collapse

Topics: innovation management entrepreneurship human resource management digital entrepreneurship social influence

Methods: qualitative interview personal interview qualitative content analysis archival research literature study

Theories: individual differences theory of gender theory of economic growth

Investigating the Nature of Change in Factors Affecting Gender Equity in the IT Sector: A Longitudinal Study of Women in Ireland

2021 | Management Information Systems Quarterly | Citations: 23

Authors: Trauth, Eileen; Connolly, Regina

Abstract: How and why do societal, organizational and individual factors affecting gender ... Expand

Abstract: How and why do societal, organizational and individual factors affecting gender equity in the IT field change over time? To answer this question a longitudinal investigation of the nature of change in factors affecting the position of women in the IT profession was undertaken. It was conducted in Ireland against the backdrop of fluctuations in the nation’s socio-economic status. The individual differences theory of gender and IT was used to analyze life history interviews conducted at four points in time with a total of 63 women whose stories cover the decades from the 1970s to the 2010s. What resulted is a dynamic extension of this theory through the addition of seven themes that characterize the nature of change in factors affecting women IT professionals. The effect on women of economic changes in Ireland is shown to occur through changes in other factors: environmental (i.e., policy, infrastructural, and cultural), identity (e.g., motherhood) and individual (e.g., family). The results reveal both gradual and dramatic changes in an evolving picture of women in this sector, against the back drop of the peaks and valleys of Ireland’s economy. Both transformational and enduring images emerge from this look at Ireland over five decades. Collapse

Topics: IT workforce IT career telephone pseudonymity online learning system

Methods: qualitative interview longitudinal research qualitative coding biographical interview longitudinal survey

Theories: individual differences theory of gender information systems theory theory of economic development

What Women Really Think of Women Affinity Groups in Tech

2020 | Americas Conference on Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Bhatia, Simran; Tari, Mina; Annabi, Hala

Abstract: Affinity Groups are utilized by ninety percent of Fortune 500 companies to prom ... Expand

Abstract: Affinity Groups are utilized by ninety percent of Fortune 500 companies to promote equity and inclusion. These groups aim to create inclusive environments that reflect a changing workforce. Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) are the most prevalent Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) intervention method utilized in the Information Technology (IT) industry. Like many other D&I interventions, WAGs have not been studied and their effectiveness has not been empirically assessed. This study investigates the women's perceptions of the WAGS and their effectiveness through interviews and focus groups with WAG members and nonmembers. The study is grounded in Annabi and Lebovitz (2018) "Organizational Interventions Mitigating Individual Barriers" theoretical framework; it examines the characteristics of WAGs and the impact of these characteristics on women's perceptions and utilization of WAGs. Preliminary findings highlight the complexity of women members' and non-members' perceptions and expectations of WAG. Collapse

Topics: team productivity innovation management corporate social responsibility electronic mail social network

Methods: focus group qualitative interview qualitative content analysis

Theories: individual differences theory of gender

A Critical Analysis on the Effects of Negative IS Stereotypes on Underserved Populations

2019 | Americas Conference on Information Systems | Citations: 1

Authors: Tari, Mina; Annabi, Hala; Ramirez, Yvette Iribe; Beneteau, Erin; Ballard, Stephanie

Abstract: Low student enrollment in information systems (IS) programs across the U.S. per ... Expand

Abstract: Low student enrollment in information systems (IS) programs across the U.S. persists, despite an increase in job opportunities for IS graduates. One approach to meet this increased demand for IS employees is the recruitment and retention of underserved populations. Beyond meeting demand for employees, creating more equitable environments is an issue of social justice essential to the vitality of the IS field. Negative stereotypes about IS are one of the major factors contributing to lack of student interest. In this paper, we synthesize relevant literature on gender and racial stereotypes and existing stereotypes about IS, describe the theoretical foundation of our proposed work, and outline our research approach. In this emergent research, we aim to contribute a theoretical understanding of underserved groups in relation to IS stereotypes. Findings from this work will contribute to the design and deployment of curriculum, pedagogy, and recruitment strategies that enhance equitable IS programs. Collapse

Topics: IT career

Methods: qualitative interview qualitative content analysis

Theories: individual differences theory of gender

The Untold Story: The Masked Experiences of Women with Autism Working in IT

2018 | Americas Conference on Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Annabi, Hala

Abstract: Women with autism working in the information technology industry (IT) face signi ... Expand

Abstract: Women with autism working in the information technology industry (IT) face significant challenges due to being women and being with autism. We know very little in the way of research about the experiences of women with autism in the IT workplace. We propose a research study to investigate the challenges and opportunities women with autism experience in the IT workplace. We use Annabi and Lebovitz (2018) Organizational Interventions Mitigating Individual Barriers Framework (OIMIB) to depict the barriers women with autism experience, the individual methods they use to mitigate the barriers, and the role organizational interventions play in mitigating these barriers. We use in-depth interviews to empower women with autism to tell their stories and the unique challenges and opportunities they experience. Collapse

Methods: qualitative interview qualitative content analysis personal interview

Theories: individual differences theory of gender

The influence of gender, and race/ethnicity on advancement in information technology (IT)

2018 | Information and Organization | Citations: 0

Authors: McGee, Kimberly

Abstract: With increased attention paid to the lack of diversity in U.S. technology firms, ... Expand

Abstract: With increased attention paid to the lack of diversity in U.S. technology firms, little attention is paid to women already in the technology workforce who aspire to senior leadership roles. This research study focused on understanding the experiences of African American/black, Asian American, European American/white, and Hispanic American/Latina women who advanced from technical/operational IT roles to senior IT executive (SITE) roles in corporate America. Previous research solely focused on gender, race, or ethnicity provided an insufficient and limited description of women's advancement journey. Rather than treat gender and race/ethnicity as mutually exclusive categories of experience and analysis, this study approached the topic from a gender intersectionality perspective and used the individual differences theory of gender and IT as an analytical lens. Specifically, the study examined women's career progression in a more nuanced manner—observing gender within race or ethnic group—which provided greater insight into the participants' advancement journey. The intent of this study was to understand how individual and organizational factors influenced each participant's career progression and what role, if any, gender and race/ethnicity played in the journey. As a result of the analysis, six themes emerged: Pathways to the SITE Role; Informal Networks; Bias; Credibility and Legitimacy; Support; and Technical Skills. Issues of gender and race/ethnicity permeated most of the factors and influenced whether the factors helped or hindered. Although some findings support existing research on women's career barriers, the intent was not to generalize the findings to all women. Rather, the study's results demonstrate that racial and ethnic variations among the women in addition to a variety of other factors contribute to different career progression experiences. Collapse

Topics: IT career IT skill IT workforce IT job personality

Methods: qualitative interview qualitative coding personal interview qualitative content analysis survey

Theories: individual differences theory of gender