THE PROBLEM OF CREATING A NON-DISCRIMINATORY ENVIRONMENT IN GENERAL SECONDARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS: GENDER APPROACH

Abstract

The article is dedicated to the actuality of the problem of implementing a gender approach as key in creating a non-discriminatory school environment in the conditions of reforming the educational system of Ukraine. The authors’ understanding of the essence of the non-discriminatory environment in an educational institution as safe, healthy, inclusive and gender-equitable is given; the role of a teacher in this process is indicated. The essence of the gender approach and the peculiarities of its implementation in the general secondary education institutions are revealed.

The results of the study of the content and prevalence of gender views and stereotypes among teachers of both sexes are presented. It has been found that most educators are heavily influenced by traditional views on the relationship between the genders. The differences in the gender perceptions of female teachers and male teachers depending on age and teaching experience have been revealed. About 20% of teachers implement a gender approach in school practice.

It is empirically proved, that pedagogical groups deepen differentiation of social and psychological requirements and expectations regarding pupils and students. Most teachers remain uncertain in their gender orientations, profess the ideology of complementarity of male and female roles. The educational process in secondary education establishments reinforces traditional views on the dichotomy of women and men social roles and to a lesser extent demonstrates the equality and equivalence of both sexes, capable of assertive behavior and the interchangeability of gender roles.

Prospects for further research outline a further need to determine ways to develop the egalitarian culture of teachers of general secondary education.