Contextualizing gender issues and inclusive education: an analysis of the perceptions of primary education teachers

ABSTRACT

This study explores the experiences and perceptions of primary education teachers regarding the struggle for gender equality in schools located in an area in northern Spain. In addition, it analyses the measures carried out in classrooms and schools to achieve this objective that are influenced by social and cultural factors, and does so within a scenario consisting of an inclusive school that advocates equality as one of its fundamental ethical principles. The study is included in the paradigm of qualitative research, and eight teachers from three public schools were interviewed. The teachers expressed their broad dissatisfaction with the generally limited involvement of the schools and the educational community in promoting gender equality, which is influenced by different social and cultural dynamics. Lines of action are proposed that motivate teachers to take responsibility for their teaching practice in order to guarantee gender equality in a context of cultural diversity.

KEYWORDS:

• Gender equality
• inclusive
• perceptions
• teachers
• social and cultural factors

Acknowledgments

This research would not have been possible without collaboration from the Department of Education, Culture and Sport of the Government of Aragon (Spain). We also express deep appreciation for the teachers who have kindly participated in the study, as well as the research staff members responsible for coordinating research activities.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Cecilia Latorre-Cosculluela

Cecilia Latorre-Cosculluela is Assistant Professor in Educational Sciences, in the area of Didactics and School Organization of the University of Zaragoza. Her lines of research focus on educational inclusion, diversity at school and the use of active learning methodologies.

Sandra Vázquez-Toledo

Sandra Vázquez-Toledo is Associate Professor in Educational Sciences, in the area of Didactics and School Organization of the University of Zaragoza. Her lines of research focus on diversity in education, attention to different needs and the application of active methodologies to promote gender equality.

Marta Liesa-Orús

Marta Liesa-Orús in Associate Professor in Educational Sciences, in the area of Didactics and School Organization of the University of Zaragoza. Her lines of research focus on attention to diversity and inclusive school, the life-quality of people with functional diversity and learning-service.

Julia Ramón-Palomar

Julia Ramón-Palomar is a Primary Education Teacher specializing in Hearing and Language and Therapeutic Pedagogy. Her research contributions include analysing good practices for gender equality and promoting an inclusive school.