On the perception of the ‘Microsoft Excel’ software program by engineering students

Introduction. The author investigated how engineering students perceive the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet software program. The aim of this research is to identify gender differences in the popularity, perception, and usage scenarios of Microsoft Excel among engineering students. Materials and Methods. At the first stage of the research, the author used statistical methods for the collection and processing of empirical data. A questionnaire was conducted with students of Bauman Moscow State Technical University. At the second stage of the research the author used the following quantitative and qualitative methods of statistical analysis of the obtained data: descriptive statistical methods, contingency table analysis, Mann-Whitney test, etc. Using statistical analysis, gender differences in the perception and use of Microsoft Excel were identified, and were justified with the help of comparative analysis. Results. The research established that the Microsoft Excel software program is highly appreciated by all indicators (suitability for solving various types of tasks, use on a stationary computer or mobile devices, simplicity of the interface) by all students regardless of the gender. The research revealed that the evaluation of Microsoft Excel in the group of young women is higher in all indicators than in the group of young men, and women attitude to the program is better in general. The results of the study confirmed that Microsoft Excel can be used for successful teaching students in large classes. Conclusions. The main features in the perception of the Microsoft Excel software program by engineering students are identified.