The resources in this section vary in format and type and include: books (both in their entirety and select chapters); monographs; reference sources; journal articles; research and project reports; thesis; select conference papers; and, country and case studies.

The resources within this section are classified into 12 broad subjects under two distinct main topics:

• Gender and open and distance learning (ODL)

• Gender and information and communication technology (ICT)

Each section contains abstracts of the relevant resources which are linked to the appropriate website. Most of these resources can be browsed online without subscription. In some instances, however, the article must be purchased from the publisher's website. Where the resource is available in print users may be able to access the resource from their local libraries.

Gender and Open and Distance Learning (ODL)

Women still face a number of barriers in their pursuit of accessing education and ICT. They have to work three shifts ¹  - the first shift is maintaining the household; the second is working to contribute to the family income; and the third shift is pursuing further education. ODL provides an opportunity for home study with less disruption to family life.

The resources in this section are organised within the following topic areas:

a) Women and distance education
b) Women in development
c) Women's empowerment
d) Gender barriers to access to education
e) Gender disparities in course materials
f) Gender learning and support
g) Gender mainstreaming
h) Socio-economic issues - Education for poor/rural people

Gender and Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Information and communication technology (ICT) have transformed the way individuals, institutions, and organisations work in both developed and developing countries. Access to and impact of ICT for both women and men are greatly influenced by socio-economic conditions, education, health, poverty, employment, environmental sustainability, human rights and community development.

The resources in this section are organised within the following topic areas:

a) Women and ICT
b) Gender barriers to access to ICT
c) Gender differences in communication styles
d) On-line learning/E-learning

References:

1. Kramarae, Cheris (2001). The Third Shift: Women Learning On-line. American Association of University Women Educational Foundation. Available at: www.aauw.org/research/upload/thirdshift.pdf  (A summary of the research is available at www.aauw.org/research/upload/Introthirdshift.pdf)