Factors that Influence Female Enrollment or Non-Enrollment in High School Technology Education Courses

Abstract

A survey instrument was used to determine which factors have the most influence on female enrollment and non-enrollment, as well as specific perceptions towards technology education courses. The sample consisted of 92 surveys that were sent to individuals from two groups: female subjects not enrolled in technology education from Site A and female subjects enrolled in technology education from Site B. Thirty-four of the surveys were returned. Results showed that specific key influences varied depending if the female subjects were enrolled or not enrolled in technology education. In addition, female subjects agreed or disagreed with perceptions depending if they were enrolled or not enrolled in technology education. Finally, almost all of the subjects were in favor of the four technology opportunities listed to increase female enrollment in high school technology education programs. The technology opportunities included a recruitment night, a parent/daughter workshop, technology ,.la b time for females, and an information workshop about careers. Implications, such as steps educators and counselors could take were discussed for future use. Also the school-to-career office within the school district should be involved with discussions that provide opportunities for females to understand technology education.