Games+Learning+Society 12 Conference

This study investigates the relationship between videogames and STEM and gendered stereotypes within both fields. While a number of programs have recently been developed to use videogames as a possible catalyst in promoting more interest in STEM fields, the negative perceptions which women must overcome in STEM fields also resonate in videogame culture. By introducing stereotype threat within a videogame activity, we attempt to replicate previous findings that these negative incidents can influence both in-game performance but also gendered perceptions related to STEM and career aspirations. The present study also observes the role multiple identities can have on moderating the effects of stereotype threat through the creation of in-game avatars. Although data collection is still at an early stage, initial results Showcase that priming different versions of self to express within an avatar can influence how players deal with these threats. \ \