Women Eager to Embrace AI, but Barriers Persist, Survey Reveals

The rise of generative AI has sparked significant interest among women, yet they remain underrepresented in the field, according to a new survey from Women Go Tech. The findings highlight the eagerness of women to adopt and learn about AI tools, while also revealing the persistent challenges of discrimination, bias, and lack of confidence that hinder their full engagement with the technology.

Women’s interest and adoption of AI tools: The survey found that a majority of women have used at least one AI tool, with ChatGPT being the most popular choice:

• 68% of female respondents have used at least one AI tool, with ChatGPT being the most preferred.
• 61% of women expressed a desire to learn more about AI tools and applications.
• Among aspiring technologists, 77% were interested in AI, while 64.6% of tech sector novices and 63.9% of experienced talent wanted to learn about the technology.

Barriers to engagement: Despite their interest, women often hesitate to deeply engage with AI tools due to a lack of confidence, insecurities fueled by gender stereotypes, and concerns about data privacy and ethical use:

• One-quarter of respondents, across both new and experienced talent groups, reported not feeling entirely comfortable with their technical skills.
• Women often underestimate their abilities due to pervasive stereotypes and societal expectations that can deter them from technology.
• 28% of respondents reported experiencing discrimination, and 32% were concerned about facing it in the future.

Lack of clear AI policies in the workplace: Many organizations have rushed to implement AI tools without establishing clear policies, leading to uncertainty among employees:

• 30% of survey respondents were unsure about their employer’s AI policy, and only 8% had received guidance on how to use AI at work.
• Employer policies that allow and guide AI use correlate with the highest usage rates (69.4%), followed by clear, prescriptive policies (64.1%).

Broader implications: The survey findings underscore the need for targeted efforts to support and encourage women’s engagement with AI technologies:

• Highlighting female role models in tech and addressing the “Matilda effect,” where the work of female scientists is attributed to men, can help combat the lack of representation and ongoing bias.
• Companies should provide clear AI policies, learning materials, support networks, and educational opportunities to help women enhance their skills and confidence in utilizing AI tools.
• Encouraging women to become mentors, participate in hackathons, and collaborate on projects can help them showcase their skills and gain practical expertise in AI.

As the AI field continues to evolve rapidly, it is crucial to address the barriers that prevent women from fully engaging with the technology. By providing supportive frameworks, fostering inclusivity, and combating bias, we can work towards a more diverse and equitable AI landscape that benefits from the unique perspectives and contributions of women.