Gender Gap in Education

Term Paper # 108336

Education
Gender and Sexuality > Gender Studies

A discussion on the issues of 'boy's trouble', 'girl's equity' in the Australian education system.

1,793 words () | 7 sources | APA | 2008 Australia

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the topic of gender within the Australian education system and discusses how the understanding of gender can impact not only students education, but also teachers and the way they teach. It looks at the question of feminism and the impact it has had on Australia's education system and whether this has led to the so-called decline in boys' education. Also, importantly, the issue of gender as a way of teaching students is dissected as well as gender and schooling and its direct link with other cultural aspects, such as, government, class, economy and the work force, to name just a few. Finally, the discourse of the education system is analysed and discussed.

From the Paper:

"The Western world is, and perhaps always will be, divided between male and female, or put simply, the gender-gap. This division enforces the Western patriarchal society in a way that is emphasised in the education system. Even though equality (of sorts) has now been achieved between men and women, the existing perception of gender differences still prevail. According to Berryman et al (1997, p. 21) "Qualities such as ambition, drive and competitiveness are regarded as typically masculine, whereas passivity, nurturance and emotionality are seen as typically feminine". If this is still our current perception of gender, we may assume that these perceptions will influence the lives of individuals on an almost daily basis. Therefore, this perception must surely influence today's students, and their education, and impact on its outcome dramatically."

Sample of Sources Used:

Adams, C. and Laurikietis, R. (1976) The Gender Trap: A closer Look at Sex Roles, Book 1: Education and Work. Essex: Virago.
Archer, J. and Lloyd, B. (1989) Sex and Gender. USA: Cambridge University Press.
Arnot, M. (1985) Race and Gender: Equal Opportunities Policies in Education. UK: Open University Set Book.
Berryman, J. et al (1996) Psychology & You: An Informal Introduction. UK: The British Psychological Society.
Cole, M. (2000) Education, Equality and Human Rights: Issues of Gender, Race, Sexuality, Special Needs and Social Class. London: Routledge Falmer.