Analyzing Gender-Based Dynamics in Remote Pair Programming Interactions

Abstract

Gender diversity on software development teams, contributes to a variety of learning, problem-solving, and decision-making styles. This study explores coordination, communication, and collaboration dynamics with 24 experienced developers, forming 12 same-gender men and women pairs, during remote pair programming. We conducted a controlled, think-aloud lab study, followed by individual retrospective interviews. Woman-woman pairs showcased shared decision-making, employing a divide-and-conquer task management strategy, however they scored lower in productivity on average compared to man-man pairs. Our findings have implications for a gender-inclusive, collaborative software design methodology to be utilized by software practitioners, bridging the gender gap in SE.