Exploring Gender Stereotypes and Sexism in Learning Apps: Insights from Austrian Secondary School Students
Eva Schmidthaler,
Matthias Schmollmüller,
Pia Wimmer-Furian,
Corinna Hörmann,
Marina Rottenhofer,
Barbara Sabitzer
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, September 2023
Pages:
111-128
Received:
7 August 2023
Accepted:
6 September 2023
Published:
27 September 2023
Abstract: Mobile educational applications (learning apps) have gained significant popularity in classrooms due to their potential to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes. However, it is crucial to ensure that these apps not only facilitate educational content but also promote equality, challenge gender stereotypes, and avoid perpetuating discriminatory practices. This study aims to investigate the perceptions of secondary school students regarding gender representations, the use of gender-neutral language, and the presence of gender-derogatory terms in two selected learning apps: “Simpleclub” and “StudySmarter”. This study involved a sample of 244 students aged between 11 and 18 years from two Austrian secondary schools. The students actively participated in teaching and learning activities where the learning apps were integrated into the curriculum. To gather data, an online questionnaire comprising both open-ended and closed-ended questions was administered to the participants. The questionnaire aimed to capture the students' feedback on their perceptions of gender representations, language usage, and stereotypes within the learning apps. The findings of the study revealed that gender-typical representations were prevalent in both learning apps. In “Simpleclub” men were primarily portrayed based on superficial factors such as age, clothing, attractiveness, and physical attributes. On the other hand, women were depicted in accordance with traditional gender stereotypes, focusing on their physical appearance, attractiveness, and conformity to societal beauty standards. Similarly, in “StudySmarter” men were predominantly described in terms of their occupations and external appearance, with relatively less emphasis on their physical attributes. However, gender stereotypes were still evident in the portrayal of men. In terms of gender-neutral language, the study found that its usage was limited within learning apps. The students reported difficulties in identifying consistent instances of gender-neutral language or depiction in the apps. Furthermore, participants noticed the presence of gender-derogatory and sexist language in the learning videos. These findings underscore the need for more diverse and inclusive representations of all genders in learning apps. Efforts and future research should be directed toward improving awareness and implementation of gender-appropriate language in educational materials, as well as fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect.
Abstract: Mobile educational applications (learning apps) have gained significant popularity in classrooms due to their potential to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes. However, it is crucial to ensure that these apps not only facilitate educational content but also promote equality, challenge gender stereotypes, and avoid perpetuating ...
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Research Article
Survey on Psychoeducation: Current Status and Involvement of Healthcare Professionals
Salim Said,
Kachouchi Aymen
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, September 2023
Pages:
129-135
Received:
25 May 2023
Accepted:
9 June 2023
Published:
31 October 2023
Abstract: Objective: The general objective of our research is to take stock of the state of the art in psychiatry and to evaluate the participation of health care personnel in therapeutic education and their motivation in the educational follow-up of patients and their families. Material: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out in May 2022 at the Department of Psychiatry at the “Saada” Regional Hospital in Marrakech, Morocco, on a sample of 60 health workers distributed as follows: 53 nurses, 6 doctors including 5 psychiatrists and a general practitioner and finally a clinical psychologist. Results: 94% of caregivers had notions about psychoeducation 70% reported having received training, 52% of which had benefited from it at the basic curriculum level. All participants in the survey stated the therapeutic effect of psychoeducation and 88% considered it a therapeutic act that must be performed by all health care staff. The high number of patients and the lack of trained staff were the main factors related to the inadequacy of psychoeducation according to our sample. Conclusion: The adoption by medical and paramedical personnel of an educational approach in their daily practice should be the rule. However the lack of training of caregivers remains an essential obstacle. staff motivation is an important element in therapeutic education, which must also involve the patient's family and friends.
Abstract: Objective: The general objective of our research is to take stock of the state of the art in psychiatry and to evaluate the participation of health care personnel in therapeutic education and their motivation in the educational follow-up of patients and their families. Material: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out in May 2022 at...
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