Desigualdade de Gênero em Ciência da Computação na UFPB: Uma Comparação do Desempenho Acadêmico

Abstract

This study investigated gender disparity in the Computer Science pro gram at the Federal University of Para´ıba (UFPB), focusing on academic per formance, enrollment and dropout rates, and participation in extracurricular activities among men and women. Between 2017 and 2023, women accoun ted for only 14,07% of incoming students, highlighting significant underrepre sentation. Nevertheless, the data show that female students have an academic performance, measured by their Grade Point Average, equivalent to their male peers, with averages of 7,54 e 7,63, respectively. Additionally, dropout rates are similar, suggesting that gender is not a determining factor in course aban donment. The study also revealed that women have higher proportional parti cipation in extracurricular activities, such as research and extension projects, compared to their representation in the program. However, they face specific challenges in activities like teaching assistantships, which require greater ex posure in predominantly male environments, emphasizing cultural barriers and gender stereotypes. The findings reinforce the need for institutional policies that foster a more inclusive academic environment, not only encouraging women’s enrollment but also strengthening their retention and active participation in the program. Such initiatives are essential to advancing gender equity and fully leveraging women’s potential in technology fields.