Abstract
This study examines informal professional networks (IPNs) and their role in the underrepresentation of women faculty in traditionally
male-dominated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. A mixed-methods design was taken in which
interviews were conducted during the qualitative phase to gather information of faculty networking experiences and the importance
of IPNs in their career development. An online survey was developed based on the findings from the interviews and used to
gather data during the quantitative phase to further probe the patterns and functions of IPNs. Major findings are reported,
including the meaningful impact of IPNs on the career development of faculty in STEM disciplines and some significant gender
differences in networking patterns.
male-dominated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. A mixed-methods design was taken in which
interviews were conducted during the qualitative phase to gather information of faculty networking experiences and the importance
of IPNs in their career development. An online survey was developed based on the findings from the interviews and used to
gather data during the quantitative phase to further probe the patterns and functions of IPNs. Major findings are reported,
including the meaningful impact of IPNs on the career development of faculty in STEM disciplines and some significant gender
differences in networking patterns.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-21
- DOI 10.1007/s12147-011-9104-5
- Authors
- Yonghong Jade Xu, University of Memphis, Ball Hall 100, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
- Cynthia L. Martin, University of Memphis, Office of Institutional Research, Administration Building 211, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
- Journal Gender Issues
- Online ISSN 1936-4717
- Print ISSN 1098-092X