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Module 10: Gender, Sexuality and Identity Issues in Schools
How does gender equality, identity, expression and sexual identity affect
the way we teach and learn?
What role do teachers play in supporting students of all backgrounds?
Identify issues surrounding gender and gender equality in schools
Explore the role of teachers and schools in supporting students with developing positive self-image
Understand how sexual identity and gender affect how we teach and learn
There are many issues that surround gender and education. One of them is gender identity. How do children develop their own identities and how does this affect their experiences both in and out of the classroom? Do teachers and schools play a role in this development? How can we provide support to all students so that they feel part of the community of learners?
Gender inequality in the classroom is also a factor to consider when thinking about gender issues and education. Gender equality is gradually declining yet still a prevalent problem exists, even after legislation was enacted over thirty years ago to correct gender inequity in the classroom (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972). Recent studies have shown that although strides have been made, there is still a great deal of work to be made in this arena. This week we will explore recent studies in gender equity and have a forum discussion based on your thoughts about single-sex schools. It is important to remember that gender bias is not only directed toward females, but also directed toward males, for example, in the disproportionate amount of males found in special education.
This week, we will be talking about many different issues in relation to gender, sexuality and identity. Please keep in mind that this weekʻs content just scratches the surface. As classroom teachers, we are responsible for learning about who are students are, what are the issues they are faced with and how best we can embrace all students and provide support.
1. View the powerpoint on Key Terms and Concepts in Gender Diversity
CLICK HERE to visit our University of Hawaiʻi page on LGBTQ+ terminology
Do you recognize all of these key terms?
What were some new concepts?
How might knowing these key terms help you as a future or current teacher?
2. View video clip below: How Stereotypes in TV and Movies May Impact Child Development
The purpose of watching this video clip is to simply get you thinking about the types of images children see frequently, how our students develop positive (or negative) self-image and identity, how parentsʻ decisions impact this and what role do we, as teachers play.
How might this relate to your teaching?
3. View Power point: Gender Inequality and consider these questions:
What does gender inequality look like in the classroom?
How can teachers play a role in promoting gender equity in their teaching?
4. Read Article: Gender is a Social Construct and Thereʻs Not Just Two
5. View video: Kumu Hina (below) and consider these questions:
What do you think about the parentʻs decision in this video clip?
Might issues in this film be scenarios that future teachers are likely to encounter?
How might you talk to your future students about gender identity and gender issues?
6. View "Killing Us Softly Part 4" and consider these questions:
What are some of the implications of gender and identity described in this film?
How might ideologies shared impact your future students?
7. View Video "Intersexion"
The first question any new parent asks... "Is it a boy or a girl?" But what happens when doctors cannot answer that question? One baby in 2,000 is born with genitalia that is so ambiguous that no-one can tell if the child is male or female.
In this groundbreaking documentary, intersex individuals reveal the secrets of their unconventional lives - and how they have navigated their way through this strictly male/female world, when they fit somewhere in between.
Whatʻs Due this Module:
Kumu Hina Film Review
Todayʻs teachers must be aware of the damage gender inequality and issues surrounding gender identity can cause. Educators should be able to recognize and correct gender inequality and strive to assist female as well as male students by providing a broad and thorough education. We cannot magically erase all gender inequities or resolve all of the problems created by them, but we can make conscious and concerted efforts to not only avoid gender inequities in the classroom, but to actively encourage the reverse of such inequities. In addition, we must remind our students to love themselves and who they are. Some students are struggling with identity issues that stem from gender and/or sexuality. We must remind them that they are perfect and amazing, just the way they are.
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