This research investigates the historical legacies and contemporary perceptions of women in information technology (IT), with an emphasis on the pioneering contributions of Ada Lovelace and other key female figures such as Grace Hopper, the ENIAC programmers, Radia Perlman, Karen Spärck Jones, and Margaret Hamilton. The study examines the influence of historical awareness on students’ perceptions of gender inclusivity in information technology (IT). Conducted at the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava, Slovakia, the research engaged 135 undergraduate and graduate students from two university courses: Professional Communication in Science and Technology (humanities) and English for IT Professionals (computing). Using a mixed-methods approach across two academic years (2023/2024 and 2024/2025), the study assessed baseline knowledge of female IT pioneers such as Ada Lovelace and evaluated the impact of a curricular intervention highlighting their contributions. Results revealed low initial awareness, particularly among humanities students, but significant improvement following targeted educational content. Statistical analysis confirmed a strong correlation between historical awareness and support for gender equity in IT. Qualitative feedback underscored students’ surprise and engagement with the topic. The findings support broader integration of inclusive narratives in university curricula and contribute to ongoing efforts to bridge gender gaps in STEM fields through education.

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From Ada Lovelace to the Present: Historical Legacies and Contemporary Student Perceptions of Women in Information Technology

  • Juraj Miština

摘要

This research investigates the historical legacies and contemporary perceptions of women in information technology (IT), with an emphasis on the pioneering contributions of Ada Lovelace and other key female figures such as Grace Hopper, the ENIAC programmers, Radia Perlman, Karen Spärck Jones, and Margaret Hamilton. The study examines the influence of historical awareness on students’ perceptions of gender inclusivity in information technology (IT). Conducted at the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava, Slovakia, the research engaged 135 undergraduate and graduate students from two university courses: Professional Communication in Science and Technology (humanities) and English for IT Professionals (computing). Using a mixed-methods approach across two academic years (2023/2024 and 2024/2025), the study assessed baseline knowledge of female IT pioneers such as Ada Lovelace and evaluated the impact of a curricular intervention highlighting their contributions. Results revealed low initial awareness, particularly among humanities students, but significant improvement following targeted educational content. Statistical analysis confirmed a strong correlation between historical awareness and support for gender equity in IT. Qualitative feedback underscored students’ surprise and engagement with the topic. The findings support broader integration of inclusive narratives in university curricula and contribute to ongoing efforts to bridge gender gaps in STEM fields through education.