Challenging Media Rhetoric: Why Gender Still Matters

• In Event: Canadian Association for the Study of Women and Education (CASWE): Does Gender Still Matter?

Abstract

There has been a recent resurgence of interest in “failing boys” in education, as described by headlines in media such as the Globe & Mail and MacLeans Magazine, causing us to wonder as to the cause of this renewed interest and the corresponding responses of government officials and policymakers. Although ongoing research has enlightened us as to new ways to think about learning and education, we don’t seem any further ahead in relation to gender issues. We continue to fall back on well-worn rhetoric determined to stir up concern among the general public. This presentation will make reference to recent newspaper headlines and magazine articles in order to interrogate the relationship between media and policy and to challenge simplistic responses to complex issues.

Author

• Katherine J. Sanford, University of Victoria