Abstract

This study aims to investigate the use of a new framework to investigate gendered working practices in a collaborative computing environment. An experimental observational study was made of mixed gender pairs performing programming tasks. The pair programming technique studied is a method used in Agile software development. The data was analysed using thematic analysis to provide insight into the data recorded. This was combined with the new framework which uses Distributed Cognition in Teams (DiCoT) and the Gender Inclusiveness Magnifier method (GenderMag), a software inspection tool. The review of the literature informs the research methods and analysis. The study was designed to demonstrate whether gendered working practices can be better understood using the new framework. The results of the research showed that this is possible but further research should be carried out to improve the framework. The method of applying the new framework is appraised and the implications for software and tools for gender inclusivity are discussed.