Gender Differences in Education - The Rise of Feminism | A Level Sociology

Summary

This video discusses the rise of feminism and its significant impact on gender differences in education, particularly the increased academic achievement of girls since the 1980s. It explores the historical context of female underachievement, societal expectations, and the transformative effects of second-wave feminism, which advocated for legal, social, and economic equality. Key developments included changes in legislation, shifts in socialization, and educational policies that supported women's ambitions. Despite progress, challenges such as the gender pay gap and underrepresentation in leadership roles persist, indicating that the fight for gender equality continues.

Takeaways

• 🎓 Girls are now achieving higher academic success than boys across all social groups, a shift from historical trends.
• 📚 Historically, girls underachieved due to societal expectations and traditional gender roles, leading to lower academic motivation.
• ✊ First wave feminism focused on political rights and suffrage, culminating in women gaining the right to vote in 1918.
• 💪 Second wave feminism emerged post-World War II, advocating for legal, social, and economic equality from the 1950s to the early 1980s.
• 🌍 Second wave feminism changed societal attitudes, motivating girls to pursue education and careers instead of traditional roles.
• 📜 Legislative changes like the Equal Pay Act and the Sexual Discrimination Act provided frameworks for gender equality in education and employment.
• 👩‍🎓 The introduction of part-time university degrees in the 1970s allowed women to balance education with family responsibilities.
• 🔍 Modern initiatives like the Equality and Diversity Act support women's rights to balance career and family, promoting flexibility in the workplace.
• 🔧 Programs aimed at breaking down gender stereotypes, such as 'Girls in Science and Technology,' encourage girls to pursue STEM careers.
• ⚖️ Despite progress, challenges remain, including ongoing gender pay gaps and the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions.

Q & A

What historical factors contributed to girls underachieving in education compared to boys?

Historically, girls underachieved due to factors such as socialization, teachers' expectations of academic ability, and societal norms that expected girls to pursue traditional roles like being housewives or mothers.

What significant change has occurred in girls' academic achievement since the 1980s?

Since the 1980s, there has been a dramatic increase in girls' academic achievement, with females outperforming males across all social groups regardless of ethnicity or social class.

What was the primary focus of second wave feminism?

Second wave feminism focused on achieving legal, social, and economic equality for women, advocating for changes in employment laws, reproductive rights, and the societal perception of women's roles.

What impact did the Equal Pay Act and the Sexual Discrimination Act have on girls' education?

The Equal Pay Act and the Sexual Discrimination Act contributed to girls being viewed as equals in the workplace, motivating them to pursue higher education and better qualifications for better employment opportunities.

How did second wave feminism influence women's socialization and aspirations?

Second wave feminism changed the way girls were socialized, promoting assertiveness and high aspirations, as they witnessed their mothers working and achieving educational qualifications.

What role did social policies play in enhancing women's educational opportunities?

Social policies, such as part-time university degrees introduced in the 1970s, allowed women to balance their educational aspirations with home and work responsibilities, facilitating greater access to education.

What are some contemporary policies that support women's career and family balance?

Contemporary policies like the Equality and Diversity Act protect women's choices to have both a family and a career, offering flexible working arrangements and maternity protections.

What criticisms exist regarding the impact of second wave feminism on women of different backgrounds?

Critics argue that second wave feminism primarily addressed the concerns of white women, neglecting the intersectional inequalities faced by black and Asian women, which were only more prominently addressed later on.

Despite improvements, what ongoing challenges do women still face in the workplace?

Women continue to face challenges such as the gender pay gap, which currently stands at about 17%, and the glass ceiling, evidenced by the low percentage of female CEOs in top companies.

How do current estimates of the gender pay gap reflect on the progress made since the feminist movements?

Current estimates suggest it could take nearly 30 years to fully close the gender pay gap, indicating that despite significant strides made by feminist movements, there is still a long way to go for complete gender equality.