Educational practices with gender perspective in science education: perceptions of teacher educators and pre-service teachers

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study characterizes the perception of gender-sensitive practices among pre-service teachers and teacher educators in science teacher education programs. A 23-item questionnaire was completed by 238 pre-service teachers and 25 teacher educators to identify gender-sensitive practices recognized in their courses and the number of gender equity activities they participated in. No significant differences were found in the perception of gender-sensitive practices based on gender, although males showed higher participation in activities (31.2%). Teacher educators perceived a lower proportion of gender-sensitive practices (41.9%) but engaged more in gender equity activities (61.9% compared to 23.5% for pre-service teachers). A significant positive correlation (0.397) was found between the perception of gender-sensitive practices and activity attendance, while age had a negative correlation (-0.241) with this perception. The findings suggest that the role of being a pre-service teacher or educator is more influential than gender in shaping perceptions. Although participation in the activities positively influences the perception of gender-sensitive practices, the participants of these activities is a consistent group. It is recommended to increase access to gender equity activities, focusing particularly on teacher educators and considering age as a factor to enhance effectiveness.