Technological Factors Affecting Female Academics’ Performance at a Higher Education Institution in South Africa
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51137/wrp.ijarbm.399Keywords:
Technological Factors, Female Academics, Female Performance, Higher Education InstitutionsAbstract
This paper aims to explore and identify the technological factors affecting female academics’ performance at a higher education institution in South Africa, amidst the longstanding challenges females face in academia. Despite being often categorised as underachievers, female academics are significantly underrepresented in leadership roles. This study employs an exploratory research design with a qualitative methodology, involving semi-structured interviews with fifteen female academics. Thematic analysis was applied to identify key factors affecting their performance. The findings revealed that technological infrastructure and support, training, and development, loadshedding impact and virtual and physical classes (online teaching) are some of the technological factors affecting female academics’ performance at a higher education institution. The paper recommends that institutional management critically review employment policies and establish programs designed to empower female academics. The paper contributes to the body of knowledge on gender equity in higher education and strategies that institutions and policymakers can use to enhance and optimise the performance of female academics. By fostering more equitable working conditions, this study seeks to promote greater representation and success of females in academic leadership roles.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Brian Kwazi Majola, Nkazimulo Precious Mahlangu (Author)
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