Gender and Education

Here in the United States we live in a country where families do not have to worry about the sex of their child. Except for some societal norms our children are created equal in most areas of our country. Everyone can vote, work, and even run for office. However, not all countries are lucky like us. There are some countries that hold different sexes to a higher degree than others. What does this do the psychological state of a child? Even though we do not enforce any rule against the different genders pursuing their dream, do we have societal occurrences that pin one gender against the other? This article takes a brief look into how our education system differs for the different sexes. Is there a difference? If there is, why is there one?

It is often debated whether or not our educational system offers the same opportunities to both genders in our country. Currently, we are seeing that more women pursue a higher education and are continuing to earn higher degrees. What is the reason for this occurrence? If this is a true development, why are men still earning more than women on average? Women earn more secondary degrees including; associates, bachelors, and masters. Yet men earn more doctoral degrees than women.

It is shown that women in the United States dominate men in writing abilities, but then fall short in math and science. Why are these trends continuing to happen this way? The notion of the hidden curriculum suggests that women are discriminated against in the education system. It believes that teachers provide special privileges to boys and as a result they become more social and learn more. However, if this notion is true, then why are more than 50% of higher education degrees going to females? If we do pay more to males in the formative years, where does the disconnect begin and when do women start surpassing males?

Some argue that this gender gap would be solved if we went to same gender class room styles. They say that this would get rid of the hidden curriculum notion because all of the students within the classroom would then have the same equal chance to get help or participate. However, would this add further to societal gender notions?

We know that this phenomenon is a problem in teaching the children, but how does this translate to those who try learning online. Typically they do not have face time with their professors, so how can you truly guess one's gender? In a day where there are examples of unisex names, how can you assume that you are teaching a girl or a boy? Therefore, wouldn't there be less bias if someone were to attend an online school to further their education. The students are forced to excel at their work without having the face to face communication and feedback with their teachers. If this thought it would then become more about those who have the initiative to ask for help and participate, rather than if a particular gender is doing it. Will we ever see a decrease in the gender gap?

Post-Post Education - Learning Never Stops!

Education.

It is the key ingredient to the survival of mankind. Without the capacity to learn, we would not have figured out how to make the very basic, yet essential things in life work, such as make fire, hunt for food, or shelter ourselves from harsh weather. It is what sets us above other species. In fact, when a person loses the ability to think for him or herself completely...we refer to them as "vegetables", or as being in a "vegetative" state. Not only is it often seen as the necessary trait to be declared a human being, or person, but it also enables a people to become organized, civilized, and prosperous down to an individual level.

What has struck a chord with me is how a bit "watered down" the concept of education has become. What do I mean by this? Well school as an institution, and education have become one. It is as if many people only see education as something attainable in a traditional school setting. This is a flawed idea in several respects.

Consider the fact that just because someone goes to school, does not automatically means they are receiving education, there are failing schools all across the country, and a learning deficit within these schools is becoming a growing problem like the national debt. This leads me to my next point. Schools may not be teaching relevant topics. The school system in America has not improved much over the years and it is starting to show when we look at things from an international perspective, which is especially important in this age of globalization. And the list goes on and on. I'm sure you can think of a few things wrong with the school system yourself as well.

The purpose of this article places its focus elsewhere within the realm of education, and that is education OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM AND INSTITUTIONS. It is important to remember that education doesn't end when class is no longer in session, or when that degree is hung on your wall. On the contrary, that is when the real education begins.

Select the Best Educational Learning Toys

Play is an essential part of childhood development, so it is important that parents choose toys that promote the learning and growth of their children. Toys should be age appropriate and encourage positive imaginative play. Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind is that appropriate toys don't have to cost a fortune, so no matter how big or small your budget is, you can find toys that will suit your child's needs. While children need toys and play things for successful development, they are no substitute to the love and nurturing that only their loved ones can provide.

Best Infant and Toddler Toys

Teach and stimulate your babies and toddlers minds with toys that focus on cognitive thinking and motor skills. As babies, children use every part of their bodies to explore the world around them, which is why they are constantly sticking everything in their mouths! Help your child learn to use his or her body parts, recognize and control objects, sounds and tastes and more with developmentally appropriate toys such as mobiles, rattles and stuffed animals.

Toddlers are very active and begin to realize that they can communicate with others, which is why focusing on participatory skills is of utmost importance. Picture books with colorful symbols and make-believe educational kids games are great interactive activities for your child and you to enjoy together. Simple toys such as blocks, balls and even hats can inspire learning and imagination in your busy toddler.

Preschool Educational learning toys

By the time your baby reaches preschool he or she will have already learned a great deal about the world around them. While some youngsters have siblings that they interact with on a daily basis, others haven't had a chance to spend lots of quality time interacting with peers, which is why preschool exposes children to a whole new world. Foster the skills that help them develop friendships by purchasing dramatic play items such as props for group play and educational kids games such as house or store.

Also, be sure to invite your child's new friends over for play dates. These get togethers will further their understanding of friendships and social interactions, and when another mommy or daddy asks if your child can come over for a few hours you can catch up on some much needed rest.

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