THE GENDER GAP IN MATH. EVIDENCES OF A STUDY IN THE PRIMARY SCHOOL IN THE SWISS CANTON OF TICINO

GIOVANNA ZANOLLA

Abstract:

This work analyzes the gender gap in math results of an entire cohort of students attending the fifth grade of the primary school in the Swiss canton of Ticino. Three evaluation contexts have been considered: the mark itself assigned by the teacher at the end of the school year, the score obtained in a standardised math test and the evaluation provided by teachers in the same school year. Multivariate analysis allows to conclude that all things being equal, gender plays a significant effect on the mark in mathematics. Males are more likely than females to achieve a high mark and they are perceived as more active and participative, while females are seen as more conform to school rules, but less involved and more insecure.

Keywords:
gender gap, primary school, evaluation, gender stereotypes, achievement, mathematics

DOI: 10.52950/TE.2018.6.1.007

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APA citation:
GIOVANNA ZANOLLA (2018). The gender gap in math. Evidences of a study in the primary school in the Swiss canton of Ticino. International Journal of Teaching and Education, Vol. VI(1), pp. 103-125. , DOI: 10.52950/TE.2018.6.1.007

Data:
Received: 21 Jan 2018
Revised: 17 Mar 2018
Accepted: 6 Apr 2018
Published: 20 Apr 2018


Copyright © 2018, Giovanna Zanolla et al, giovanna.zanolla@supsi.ch