Gender Inequality in Education: A Sociological Perspective

Abstract

The problem of gender disparity in education has been widespread both at the developing and developed countries. This sociological paper discusses the cause and effects of gender inequality in access to education with particular attention paid to societal, cultural and institutional determinants that affect the inequality of access and treatment of education. Based on different case studies and theories, the paper examines gender roles, stereotypes and socioeconomic issues as they affect access to education especially among girls and women. It also discusses how gender intersects with other areas of discrimination, including class and ethnicity, to determine the outcomes of education. The paper also examines the efforts of policies and reforms to deal with gender inequalities and their effectiveness. Through a sociological approach analysis of gender inequalities in education, this paper will offer a perspective into how the education systems should be restructured to provide equal opportunities to all irrespective of gender.