Differences in Digital Skills Between Men and Women: Case Study in Calceta – Manabí

The study addresses gender disparities in digital skills among computer science students at the Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí Manuel Félix López. Using a descriptive quantitative approach and stratified sampling, 212 students were selected for the study. A questionnaire validated by another research work and adapted to the needs of the study was used, including sections on artificial intelligence and ChatGPT, to assess basic and advanced digital skills. Data were collected through Google Forms, and analyzed with statistical software, using descriptive and inferential statistics, including t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests. The descriptive analysis showed a predominance of male participation, a trend towards the use of mobile devices, and limited formal technological training. Significant gender-based differences were noted in programming and AI use, with pronounced disparities in interactions with ChatGPT and understanding of prompts, indicating gender variations in the perception and use of technology. The study concludes that there are evident gender disparities in areas such as prompt comprehension and the academic use of ChatGPT, aligning with previous studies on gender gaps in technological education. It suggests the need for educational strategies to address these disparities, contributing to more equitable digital competence in higher education.