Diversity in the Information Technology Program at the University of Belize

Abstract

A diversity of perspectives produces solutions that benefit a broad range of people. In computing, this is crucial since the field is ubiquitous, with applications in a broad spectrum of areas that include science, humanities, and foundational work to develop computing itself. This need for diversity in computing is important for the employees provided to the technology sector by institutions like the University of Belize. This research examines diversity in the University of Belize Bachelor of Information Technology program from 2011 to 2020. An overview of the demographics of the program includes the variables of gender, ethnicity, geography and more. Gender is essential; the results show that males are the majority in program enrollment. Both females and males have similar views that the program can benefit from more diversity, but females do not think it is as diverse as males, and they feel less successful at the University.