Final answer:
Gender plays a critical role in affecting access to and acceptance of technology. Gender stereotypes and cultural norms contribute to the gender gap in STEM fields and influence women's access to opportunities. New media presents opportunities and risks in bridging or broadening this gap.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gender is a significant factor affecting access to and acceptance of technology. The gender gap in the tech sector, primarily in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), persists partly due to gender stereotyping. This bias enforces the perception of men being the primary bearers of technological knowledge, thus affecting women's opportunities and acceptance in tech-related fields.
Research has shown that women often confront barriers such as transportation to school, gender-based violence, practices like child marriage, and cultural norms, all of which can impede their access to quality education and technology. The media plays a role in reinforcing gender stereotypes, which can influence public perception and self-esteem, often prioritizing men's contributions over women's appearances rather than their skills or qualifications.
New media offers mixed outcomes; it could potentially challenge or reinforce gender stereotypes. It can provide a platform for feminist discourse but can also be a breeding ground for antifeminist activities. Additionally, studies have found that women tend to feel less confident and have less access to the Internet, especially when the technology is designed by and for male users, which can further widen the gender divide in technology.