Gendered and Sexual Norms in University Contexts: Experiences From Chinese Students

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This session provides insight into the gender experiences of Chinese students and their negotiation of gender norms in both domestic universities and transnational contexts. Although numerous studies have shown that China embeds stereotypical gendered and sexual norms into its educational system and local culture, research from the students’ perspective remains limited. This session explores the challenges faced by female engineering students in China, the acceptance of rape myths among cis-heterosexual college students, and the gendered experiences of Chinese international students in UK universities. By presenting students’ perspectives and experiences, these three papers collectively advocate for an empowering approach, fostering reflection on the enduring gender structures and sexual norms in China, and highlighting the students’ agency in challenging these norms.

Sub Unit

• Committee on Scholars and Advocates for Gender Equity in Education

Papers

• Gender Heteroglossia: University Experiences of Chinese Female Engineering Undergraduate Students - Zeyi Liu, University College London - IOE; Yuwei Xu, University of Nottingham

• Gender Subjectivities and Habitus: Understanding Chinese International Students’ Experiences at UK Universities - Qiaohui Xue, University of Nottingham

Discussant

• Yuwei Xu, University of Nottingham