Computers in the workplace (is 912 A4)

Use of mainframes, personal computers, and word 

processors on the job, by age and sex, 1989

 

Source: General Social Survey

As well, women reported a higher level of computer use. Over 37% of women used computers in their 

work, compared with about 30% of men. (In contrast, in the adult population, slightly more men than 

women reported knowing how to use a computer.) However, this difference results from women in the 

labour force being concentrated in office jobs where automation is well under way. 

Education is also a factor in determining who does or does not use a computer at work. The higher one's 

level of education, the greater the likelihood of working with a computer. About 55% of those with 

university degrees used computers at work, compared with only 12% of individuals with less than high 

school (

Table 2

). 

 

Table 2