Investigating Perceptions of Gender Education by Students and Teachers in Taiwan

The authors investigated perceptions of Taiwanese students and teachers concerning topics and teaching strategies generated in response to a new national requirement for gender-equity education. Elementary, junior high, and senior high students (N = 2,928) and teachers (N = 221) responded to survey questions. Findings revealed differences in teacher vs. student preferences and differences caused by grade level. Teachers preferred biological health topics and traditional teaching strategies, whereas students preferred equity-related topics and interactive and group discussionoriented teaching strategies. Results suggest that teachers may be uncomfortable with open discussion of equity issues. Strategies for creating greater congruence between teacher and student preferences are suggested.