Classroom Teacher Gender Bias Within the Non-government Education Sector

Abstract

This self-reflection considers gender bias within the classroom and why there is less gender bias in the private sector compared to public sector schools. In Australia the generalisation is that teaching is a woman’s job and one of low social standing, with possible stereotyping of male teachers in relation to child protection issues. I decided to become a secondary teacher because there is far less perception of male teachers in secondary schooling in relation to child protection issues, and I felt I could make a valuable contribution to society if good practice was adhered to. During my studies I was a minority, one of a small percentage of males taking particular subjects. Fortunately I was able to organise my own placements, which allowed for a variety of experiences in both public and private sector schools. My experience enabled me to see how gender bias plays a role in why men choose other professions, and why public schools are struggling to retain male teachers but private schools are more desirable. There are numerous differences between the public and private sectors in relation to gender bias, including the private sector’s ability to address remuneration, career opportunities, resources, support and enhanced social status.