This paper explores the differences between boys and girls in approaching digital technologies (Information and Communication Technologies, ICT) in Ticino, with a particular focus on the potential uptake of a study or professional career in ICT.

This paper, developed as part of a European project, explores the differences between boys and girls in approaching ICT in Ticino, with a particular focus on the potential uptake of a study or professional career in ICT. After a focus group with teachers and interviews with women who had a career in ICT, the study involved 539 students in high school through a survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. The results indicate that there are no big gender differences when it comes to ICT use and perception. Small differences are found in the perception of the gender digital divide, while relevant differences concern the view and values attached to a future professional career.