Gender issues in preservice teachers' training: ICT literacy and online learning

Gender differences in self reported ICT experience and ICT literacy among first year graduate trainee teachers were investigated. Using a dynamic model, three main components of aspiring teachers' ICT literacy were covered: (1) present general problem solving and technical ICT capabilities; (2) situational and longitudinal sustainability, and (3) transferability of ICT capabilities into a future professional domain. No significant differences were found between females and males for previous experience with ICT. However, males on average worked with computers significantly more hours per week than females. Significant differences between males and females were observed for technical ICT capabilities, and situational and longitudinal sustainability. Males' scores were higher. In the regression analysis, when the impacts of the background and ICT experience variables were controlled, gender failed to be a significant predictor for sustainability scores. However, it remained a significant predictor for some trainee teachers' scores, related to their technical ICT capabilities. Female and male participation in compulsory online learning activities was also compared. No significant differences were observed.