ED2BLG-Learning Gender: Exploring the Links Between Gender, Education and Society

Module Provider: Institute of Education
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Ms Suzy Tutchell
Email: s.tutchell@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

In this module, we will consider the gender dimensions of research, analysis, policy and practice in relation to education and society. We will explore gender differences, relationships and power dynamics particularly linked to inequalities in education, social theory and sociology of education. We will evaluate the position of women and patriarchy historically and in contemporary society by considering a range of sociological and feminist explanations of gender inequality. We will explore the notion that gender exists beyond a binary and that a range of gender identities should be recognised within education and society. Each session presents a different theme relevant to gender difference/[in]equalities offering national and international perspectives. Students will be asked to engage with debates on and representations of gender through a range of media and the arts. The primary aim is to question the notion of gender inequalities and students are encouraged to draw upon their own generational experiences to practice formulating their own questions contesting and analysing gender in education and society today.

Aims:

• To introduce and critically evaluate sociological questions about gender and society


• To consider the role and value of different gender theories in making sense of how social and educational inequalities can be reproduced and apply these critically to specific examples 


• To develop a vision of gender equity, relevant to contemporary 21st society and a creative education to advance social change


• To develop a more multi-faceted notion of identity through an exploration of how gender intersects with ethnicity and social class

Assessable learning outcomes:

Students will be assessed on their ability to:

• Identify some of the common barriers and social structures of gender equality


• Identify the impact of gender inequality on qualities of life, life choices, educational outcomes


• Critically evaluate different creative approaches about socially constructed gendered experiences of schooling, identity and knowledge

Additional outcomes:

Students will:

• Organise and articulate opinions and arguments in discussion, presentations, and writing


• Gain valuable experience in using a wide variety of information sources skilfully and appropriately


• Demonstrate a critical understanding of contemporary theories through personal engagement and practice

Outline content:

The focus of this module is upon exploring links between lived understandings of gender linked to education and society which impact on individual opportunities and outcomes. The module will cover topics which include performing gender: 21st century constructions of femininity and masculinity, gender(ed) identities, international perspectives, feminist standpoint theory, shaping the politics of gender and education, and approaches to social justice and gender. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures, seminar discussions, group work, external conference and online contributions.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20
Seminars	4
Tutorials	2
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (independent)	110
Wider reading (directed)	20
Peer assisted learning	10
Advance preparation for classes	10
Preparation for tutorials	1
Preparation for seminars	8
Completion of formative assessment tasks	10
Reflection	5
Total hours by term	200	0	0
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Reflective written and illustrated study of 2500 words, on a chosen theme relating to gender and education equivalent topic. 

Formative assessment methods:

There will be regular opportunities for formative feedback during group discussions and individual tutorials. The formal assessment will take the form of a reflective written and illustrated study summarising a researched topic of their choice and interest, or 1000 words. 

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

40%

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission during the summer resit period.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: None

2) Specialist equipment or materials: None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: None

4) Printing and binding: None

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: None

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: None

Last updated: 30 March 2023