Re-examining the gender factored agentic and communal career profession of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) students

Abstract

This paper examines the narrative about gender influence in students' career choices and professions is something that needs to be reconsidered to remain relevant in the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) and a society that is always evolving. The 4IR has resulted in disruptive innovation globally, wherefore, the technological innovation that includes artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. These disruptions, however, may be creative in that as some jobs are lost due to the development of artificial intelligence, new ones are created. Hence, a positive impact on key industries and sectors, like business, health, and education as the globe rapidly moves toward a more digital economy, many low- and middle-income countries face difficulties finding competent workers to fill crucial Information and Communication Technology (ICT) professions in growing markets. The fourth industrial revolution, which involves more than just technological transformation, is drawing attention around the globe. This shortfall is made worse by the underrepresentation of women in ICT-related fields. The demand for ICT professionals/ workers and the supply of job seekers with the necessary technical skills threaten the ability of the country (South Africa) to take part in a powerful driver of growth in the fourth industrial revolution. This paper is a systematic literature review supported by the theory of social cognitive career theory (SCCT) and expectancy-value theory (EVT). The findings revealed that gender disparity, inadequate career guidance, and educational career ambition play an enormous role amongst male and female students when choosing ICT as a career choice.