Meena Needs a Computer Now: Co-design Solutions to Barriers using Fictional Inquiry for Women in Computing

Nova Ahmed, Tasmiah Tahsin, Ifti Azad Abeer, Sumit Kumar Kar, Anik Saha, Anik Sinha, Sumaya Akter Ruhi, Md. Hussain Shahriar, Sumaya Yasmin, Nazmun Nahar, Syeda Shabnam Khan

Abstract: Gender disparity in computing is a well-explored concern. To complement existing research, we use a non-intrusive exploration method of Fictional Inquiry. Followed by co-design workshop to explore solution approaches to increase women’s participation in computing. The study involved n=48 women in computing (WiC) students in computing from 4 universities across Bangladesh. Participants shared their challenges and desired solutions which we analyzed using qualitative methods along with Natural Language Processing based tools to illustrate the problems from various perspectives while minimizing potential biases. The research team reflects on methodological decisions, policy implications, and the need for culturally and contextually appropriate tools and datasets to better support WiC research in resource-limited settings.

External IDs:doi:10.1145/3762808