Analysis of Gender Images in Elementary School Mathematics Textbooks of Jiangsu Education Press

Abstract

This dissertation analyzes gender role images in elementary school mathematics textbooks of Jiangsu Education Press in China. The study aims to identify whether gender stereotypes and discrimination exist in textbooks and develop strategies to address these issues. The results showed that male characters were more frequently portrayed than female characters in both text and images, and they tended to be depicted as active and confident problem solvers. In contrast, female characters were often shown as passive and dependent learners. Additionally, gender stereotypes were found in portraying male and female characters roles and activities, with males frequently engaging in activities related to science and technology, while females were associated with more traditional roles such as homemakers and caregivers. The results of this study will shed light on the nature and extent of gender bias in mathematics textbooks published by Jiangsu Education Press and contribute to their improvement. This study contributes to the broader field of gender bias in education by providing a more specific and focused analysis of gender role representations in elementary school mathematics textbooks.