Gender-Inclusive Language of Office Communications in an Academic Setting

Abstract

This paper was pursued to determine if gender-inclusive language is used in office communications of a higher educational institution in Laguna, and from the results may propose an action plan to sustain or improve the gender and development programs of the university. Using the descriptive method, office communications in the form of memos and employees from the focal office were evaluated if they utilized gender-inclusive language as stated in the Magna Carta of Women. The results of the study showed that only 4% of office communication does not use gender-inclusive language. Also, the findings showed that 100% of the employee respondents in the Human Resources Department scored low on the Gender Inclusive Language Test, interpreted as being unaware of gender-inclusive language. It is then concluded that the higher educational institution in Laguna utilizes gender-inclusive language in its office communication in the form of business correspondences and office memos. The researcher recommends that the action plan proposed be implemented. Also, the Gender and Development Department should create programs and policies and be actively in charge of all concerns regarding gender development, awareness, and sensitivity. This research endeavors that the budget allocated for gender and development in the university be properly utilized in the form of training and seminars which may, among its programs, focus on gender sensitivity and gender-inclusive language.