Gênero e inclusão digital: uso e apropriação das TICs pelos usuários do programa federal GESAC

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on social and gender differences in use and appropriation of information and communication technology (ICT) by users of a Brazilian federal government program for digital inclusion – Governo Eletrônico Serviço de Atendimento ao Cidadão (GESAC). The literature that considers social and cognitive problems involved in ICT learning and appropriation and its consequences for participation in knowledge society are discussed. Women conquests and gender problems related to ICT use are also considered. Data analyzed here were obtained from a research project aimed at evaluating the above mentioned government program – a Pesquisa Nacional de Avaliação do Programa – carried out in 2009 all Brazilian states, and obtaining information about program users of these “Pontos de Presença” (Presence Points), installed in a large range of institutions, including public schools, non-government associations, military units, etc. Several aspects users ICT knowledge, use and opinion about the program from 8483 program users. These secondary data allowed one to explore relationships between social-demographic variables that seek to detect ICT use appropriation. Based on the literature that discusses ICT impact in society, a classification of types of ICT were utilized in the analyses which therefore aggregates ICT uses that contribute to the “cultural capital”, “social capital” and to utilitarian purposes. Although gender differences were not outstating, results obtained suggest that mem use ICT and search information in the internet more independently and in a more or-active way, as it is case of downloads and blogs and websites creation, whereas women use it more for the fulfillment of tasks characteristics of women’s social roles, as information about wellbeing and education.