Technology and librarianship: a test of the human capital model of occupational segregation

Abstract

An empirical test of the human capital model of occupational segregation is undertaken by analysing the gender ratio of new entrants into a traditional female occupation over a period of time characterized by significant technological change. Specifically, the relative number of females receiving the terminal professional degree in librarianship is examined over the 1968–92 period using regression analysis. The results indicate that a statistically significant decline in the relative number of new female entrants occurred over this period, ceteris paribus. Thus, the human capital model cannot be rejected in this case.