Gender Differences in the Choral Classroom: Examining Participation and Teacher–Student Interactions

• In Event: 75.051 - Music Education in Middle Schools

Abstract

Within American K-12 school culture, there is a gender disparity in the rates of participation in singing activities (Koza, 1993; Freer, 2010). Educational researchers have also identified gender differences in how teachers interact with students (Drudy & Cathain, 2002; Brophy & Good, 1970). This study explores gender equity within choral classrooms and examines the types of teacher-student interactions based on gender. Using an observational design, eight middle-level classrooms were observed examining participation and teacher-student interactions. The results of this study indicate that teachers have significantly and disproportionately more interactions with boys than with girls. While this study reports significant findings, the gender differences observed in the choral classroom may be similar to trends in other disciplines.

Author

• Jamey Kelley, Florida International University