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Gender and subject choice
Perceptions of learning
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Perceptions of Learning

What are the attitudes towards, and choice of, subjects between boys and girls? How are these associated with the perceptions of subjects?
  • Science, mathematics, technology, IT and PE are rated as 'masculine' by pupils and preferred by boys. Girls rate English, humanities, music, PSE and RE as feminine and are preferred by girls.

  • In a recent survey by the National Literacy Trust (2008), more girls saw themselves as readers and enjoyed reading than did boys.

  • If it is true that subject choices are becoming less stereotyped, it is mainly in one direction: girls are more prepared to tackle 'masculine' subjects, especially those perceived as having a high-status. Whilst the majority of boys still shun feminine subject choice.

  • Occupational opportunities remain heavily structured by gender. Young women are still selecting business and commerce, hairdressing, and beauty and caring services, while young men are still choosing engineering, construction and mainstream science subjects