Gender inequality in education: using gender inclusive language in the classroom

Both boys and girls have similar goals of educational achievement and similar abilities. However, through research we know that gender inequality exists both at the primary and secondary school levels. Some reasons for this are that curricular materials portray boys/girls/men/women differently, boys are allowed more leniency for classroom mis-behavior and boys are called on more often than girls. Sadker and Sadker (1994). Another possible reason inequality exists is because of the language teachers use in the classroom. In an online article from Sheknows.com the author mentions that what we call our kids in the classroom does matter. I think it is important as educators that we evaluate how we address our students in the classroom. Is our language equitable to all students?

You can check out the full article here:http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/1053415/boys-girls-purple-penguins-what-we-call-our-kids-matters

 

Leave a Reply