Girls and boys in the early years : gender in an African Catholic primary school in Marianhill, Durban.
Date
2008
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Abstract
There is evidence that primary schools are important places where gender
inequalities are prevalent. The aim of this study was to explore how gender
relations amongst grade two boys and girls in an African junior primary are
constructed. It investigated how gender relations amongst 7/8 year old grade two
boys and girls in an African Catholic junior primary school situated in Mariannhill,
Durban, are constructed. It explored the process through which young township
boys and girls attach meaning to gender and forge their gender identities. In this
study young boys and girls were active agents in the construction of their gender
identities. This study adopted a qualitative approach. Observations and
unstructured interviews were used as methods of collecting data from grade two
boys and girls. Purposive sampling was used in selecting seven boys and seven
girls to participate in group interviews.
The study focussed on micro dynamics of boys and girls pertaining to
friendships, sexualities, play, violence, religion, classroom chores and school
subjects in a detailed analysis. It showed that gender equalities are pervasive in
the little cultural world of grade two boys and girls.
Description
Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2008.
Keywords
Sexism in education--South Africa., Theses--Education.