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Author Rich C. McIlroy |
| Abstract Women are chronically underrepresented in engineering. Some have argued that greater emphasis of the social relevance of engineering could help address the challenge. Human factors and ergonomics (HFE), in its focus on the human in the system, does just this. Could HFE therefore help us solve the engineering gender challenge? How is HFE currently performing in terms of gender equity? This study used surveys and interviews with students and educators to explore these issues. Participants highlighted the need for institutional guidelines, sincerity in implementation, and a broader, integrated approach. HFE, by virtue of its human-centred focus, is well-positioned to lead efforts toward gender equity in engineering, but concerted effort is required. |
