Women, guilt, and home computers.

Abstract

This paper will discuss, with reference to a field study examining attitudinal, emotional, and physical barriers, some of the ways in which some women are currently restricted in accessing networked computers in their own households. The study was prompted by a concern that current discussions focussing on the potential of computer-supported distance learning do not acknowledge differences in women's experience of family and household which may impinge on access. It will be suggested here that the domestic arrangements of space and time with home computers are crucial factors in supporting women's access to learning and personal development via the Internet.