I briefly skimmed a couple of messages regarding "Gender." My input to that discussion. I work with approximately 500 students a week Pre kindergarten-6 in a moderately (un)updated computer lab setting in a District of Columbia public school. I have been keeping a brief journal on gender differences with these students. Thus far, I note, (this is a very generalized statement but can be supported by observation of the group) across the board, that boys are much more aggressive using the computers than the girls are. Their approach to computer use is similar to the same types of behavior I see on the playground. Whether we are using word processing, spread sheets, learning games including Treasure Mathstorm, The Learning Company Reader Rabbit Series, and Math Blaster, overall the above statement applies.
Why? I don't know. I can only observe and report what I see. I use the approach with my classes that girls and boys need to be the center of the experience, not just follow the teacher directions. I encourage them to experiment, telling them that their focus is exploration and discovery. When the boys meet with a success (for instance discovering how many picks they can win while playing Treasure Mathstorm) the excitement can be heard by all. When the girls make the same discovery they simply continue on without much fanfare.
I have observed younger girls, particularly 4-7 year olds, sitting and engaging in little or no activity with the computer program because they have not been able to figure out how to perform necessary tasks. They just sit there--sometimes not even asking for help--so timid and afraid they will not be able to perform. The little boys are squealing with excitement, even when they erase their entire screen. Pay is lousy dollar-wise but the feedback and insight I am gaining will be, I hope, a windfall in the world of CBLE.
I will be back at another time with additional information.
You academics let me know what you think of my primary research with live subjects. I will continue to keep my journal and will get back with you. Anyone else out there coming up with the same information?