Gender Differences in Achievement - Internal Factors

Question 1

Which sociologists discuss internal factors in gender differences?

Answer 1

1) . Gorard = intro of GCSE/coursework –> boys started to fall behind.
2) . Mitsos and Browne = girls are better at coursework.
3) . Elwood = coursework is unlikely to be the sole reason.
4) . Swann = girls prefer paired work.
5) . Weiner = teachers have challenged sexist stereotypes –> removed from resources.
6) . Jackson = league tables –> girls more attractive than boys.

Question 2

What did Gorard find about the introduction of coursework in education?

Answer 2

• 1975 - 1989 = constant gender gap.

- 1989 = gender gap increased (coursework was introduced).

Question 3

According to Mitsos and Browne, why are girls better at coursework?

Answer 3

1) . Spend more time on it.
2) . Take more care when presenting it.
3) . Better at meeting deadlines.
4) . Bring the correct materials to lesson.

Question 4

What does Swann say is responsible for the gender gap?

Answer 4

Self-fulfilling prophecies (positive for girls, vice versa) =

• girls = better at paired work, and listening.
• boys = dominate class-discussion.

Teachers label girls as cooperative.