Gender and equity in elearning

This paper reports on a large scale survey of the perceptions of university students to their use of an online learning environment. The aim of the survey was to gather data to inform online learning practices at the university. The results were explored, amongst other factors, for gender differences. Findings include no significant differences between the female and male students with respect to being able to use the online learning environment confidently and effectively. In general the female students were more willing to participate in online discussions though there was no difference between the female and male students as to whether they were willing to voice their opinions online. An unexpected result was the greater value placed by female students on using this environment for working with students of diverse backgrounds.