Technology as a Tool for Social Transformation and Gender Inclusion

Technology plays a crucial role in contemporary society, being an integral and dynamic component of the social fabric (Bertomeu, 2008). However, its development and use can leave aside important perspectives, such as women's, resulting in an incomplete and unfair technological construction (Castaño, 2008). Emerging digital spaces, such as virtual communities, offer new forms of social interaction that challenge traditional gender roles, although their development continues to be influenced by corporate interests (Wacjman, 2006). The Internet is recognized as a powerful tool for both political mobilization and female empowerment (Vázquez & Añino, 2008).

To achieve a fair and equitable digital society, it is essential to address gender stereotypes and promote equal access to technology, allowing the full participation of women in its development and use (CEPAL, 2023; Castaño, 2008). This implies not only increasing female representation in technological careers but also eliminating perceived barriers that may deter their participation (Sáinz and González, 2008). Digital transformation must be inclusive and structural, promoting a virtuous circle of knowledge and opportunities for everyone, with special attention to the impact on daily life (Castaño, 2008).

In conclusion, women's inclusion in the technological sphere is essential to ensuring that technology reflects the needs and perspectives of the entire society. Adopting inclusive and equitable approaches to developing and using technology and recognizing and addressing gender inequalities present in contemporary society is necessary.

References

1. Bertomeu, Mª Angustias (2008): “Claves no sexistas para el desarrollo de software”. En Cecilia Castaño (2008): La segunda brecha digital, p. 267-293. Madrid: Cátedra. 
2. Castaño, Cecilia (2008): La segunda brecha digital. Madrid: Cátedra.
3. Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Caribe (CEPAL) (2023): La igualdad de género y la autonomía de las mujeres y las niñas en la era digital: aportes de la educación y la transformación digital en América Latina y el Caribe. Santiago de Chile: CEPAL.
4. Sáinz, Milagros y González, Ana (2008): La segunda brecha digital: educación e investigación. En Cecilia Castaño (2008): La segunda brecha digital, p. 221-226. Madrid:  Cátedra.
5. Vázquez, Susana y Añino, Sara (2008). La diversidad de las mujeres ante Internet, en Cecilia Castaño (2008): La segunda brecha digital, p. 155-184. Madrid: Cátedra. 
6. Wajcman, Judith (2006): El Tecno Feminismo. Madrid: Cátedra.

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