Analysis of Perception and Self-Perception of Women's Role in the Systems Engineering Program at Universidad de San Buenaventura, Cali Campus

Abstract

In this work, we explore the perceptions and self-perceptions of the role of women in the Systems Engineering program at Universidad de San Buenaventura, Cali. Based on an open-ended survey applied to 33 participants, female and male narratives were analyzed using natural language processing techniques supported by artificial intelligence. The results reveal tensions that affect women’s educational experience, such as low female representation in the classroom and the need for constant validation. At the same time, discourses of recognition and leadership emerge, although in some cases mediated by positive stereotypes. From the male perspective, a spectrum can be observed ranging from active recognition to resistance against inclusion policies, reflecting the persistence of meritocratic views. These findings highlight the importance of designing pedagogical strategies that promote gender equity, make female role models visible, and create safe spaces to strengthen women’s participation and retention in engineering environments.