Understanding the impact of a teacher education course on attitudes towards gender equity in physical activity and sport: An exploratory mixed methods evaluation. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pollock, Emma R.; Young, Myles D.; Lubans, David R.; Coffey, Julia E.; Hansen, Vibeke; Morgan, Philip J.
• Is Part Of: Teaching and teacher education. Volume 105(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Inservice and preservice teachers -- Implicit and explicit attitudes -- Gender bias -- Physical activity -- Gender equity -- Teacher training; Teaching -- Periodicals; Teachers -- Training of -- Periodicals; Enseignement -- Périodiques; Enseignants -- Formation -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 371.10205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tate.2021.103421
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0742-051X

Abstract

Abstract: This study explored the impact of a university teacher education course on preservice and inservice teachers' attitudes towards gender equity in physical activity and sport. Preservice teachers ( n = 40) completed an Implicit Association Test and explicit attitude measures pre- and post-course. Focus group interviews were conducted with preservice and inservice teachers ( n = 24). Preservice teachers reduced their negative implicit and explicit attitudes towards girls and activity. Preservice and inservice teachers also improved their awareness and gained skills to address gender-related issues in schools. Targeted teacher education courses have the potential to improve gender equity in schools. Highlights: Study 1 investigated teachers' attitudes towards girls and physical activity. Study 2 explored more deeply, teachers' perceptions of the impact of the course. Preservice teachers reduced negative implicit and explicit attitudes towards girls. Teachers reported a new awareness and skills to address gender inequity. Teachers gained confidence to advocate for societal changes in gender equity.