Women in STEM Workplaces and Computer-Mediated Communication: Obstacle or Advantage?

Abstract

As women have the potential to bring unique perspectives to the workplace, the under-representation of women in STEM occupations is a severe limitation to global advancement through research and innovation. Workplace utilization of computer-mediated communication (CMC) may impact common barriers faced by women in STEM, such as stereotypes, a “chilly” workplace climate, lack of social support and mentorship opportunities, and work-family conflict. As organizations shift further into the use of virtual communication, it is essential to take advantage of CMC as a way to facilitate gender equality in the workplace while simultaneously mitigating barriers workplace CMC may present for women in STEM. The potential implications of workplace virtual communication, virtual teams, e-mentoring, cyber incivility, and telecommuting for women in STEM careers are discussed.