Perceived differences in confidence and ability of females: the role of human resources

Abstract Drawing on data from 65 undergraduate students in a college level Database Systems course, this study explores potential differences between men and women students in terms of their confidence to perform well prior to the course, their actual performance during the course, and their confidence after the course has concluded. We find that while the confidence level of women is lower than the men prior to the course, the actual performance of both groups during the course, as well as their confidence after the course, are similar to each other. Our study provides evidence that societal socialization and stereotypes may cause women students to believe that they cannot succeed in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects and thus careers. We discuss the implications of our findings for firms seeking gender diversity and we suggest future research ideas.