Exploring Career Selection in Computing: A Case Study Examining the Experiences of Women Across Different Age Groups in Costa Rica

Abstract

Women have lower participation in STEM careers than men, Computer Science being one those in Costa Rica. Despite many efforts, the number of women haven ́t increase much throughout the years. In this qualitative research paper 24 women, professional and students, of different age groups were interviewed. They were asked about the things they considered when selecting the career and what factors played a major role into their decision of studying CS. Support from family and friends are very important. They considered that CS as a career has many stereotypes that make the access difficult for them but that it isn’t impossible. Through their experience we highlight some interesting findings and considerations about career selection in computing that they had, what they think about the career, the gender gap and the efforts that need to be made to allow the number of women and underrepresented groups in STEM.