Two studies--conducted in 1987 and 1988 in high schools in the Madison, Wisconsin, Metropolitan School District--investigated the existence of gender related differences in high school elective computer courses and factors affecting the differences. In the first study, a two-part survey was administered to the total population of students enrolled…

Reports results of a study which examined students' assessment of societal influences on their participation in computing. Gender differences in attitudes toward three factors are discussed: computing as male dominated, influence of significant others, and negative attitudes associated with computing and career aspirations. Students, especially…