Barbie Against Superman: Gender Stereotypes and Gender Equity in the Classroom

Abstract

In this age of mass media, we are surrounded with images that promote certain gender roles. These hidden forces shape us and our world view, often without us being aware that they are doing so. Gender stereotypes occur when generic attributes, opinions or roles have been applied toward either gender and the results are apparent everywhere in our society. From the point of view of education, it is important to use and/or to refuse gender stereotypes in the classroom. Since education is a significant social area where gender segregation and the reproduction of gender stereotypes are generated, there is, without doubt, much can be done in this area to prevent this phenomenon. As gender equity, is prevalent part of our society, teachers must help their students identify where it exists in the classroom and school environment.