A study of guidance barriers that affect female student enrollment in technology education programs at four Green Bay Wisconsin high schools

Abstract

Technology education at the high school level continues to attract male students in greater numbers than female students. There are many factors that contribute to this difference in gender enrollment, one of which may be perceptions held by guidance counselors about female student participation and enrollment in technology education programs. Counselors may still be of the opinion that while male students are appropriate candidates for technology education, female students should by guided toward other courses of study. This investigator surveyed guidance personnel at four Green Bay Wisconsin High Schools to determine if there are guidance barriers that contribute to low female enrollment and participation in technology education classes. A questionnaire was designed and administered to guidance counselors to determine their attitudes toward female student participation in these programs. The survey also queried their knowledge and understanding of the content of modern technology education. The findings of this study were based on the results of the survey administered in the fall of 2003. These results and recommendations may lead to (a) improved understanding by guidance counselors about the benefits of technology education for female students, (b) improved counselor understanding of modern technology education goals, and (c) improved opportunities for female secondary students to participate in technology education programs.