Theorizing Gender for Community College Research and Practice

Abstract

Feminist theory uses gender as a lens to evaluate society's institutions and power hierarchies. Gender evolves as a social construction rather than an essential difference between the sexes, and it supports the so-called ''hegemony of dominant men'' in society. Socialization by gender enables discrimination in gender roles and occupations, and its main tool of segregation is a major strategy used by employers and other decision makers to engage effectively in discrimination. The extent to which the principle of gender organizes selection of field of study by students and faculty, and other facets of the community college campus, provides for a number of ongoing research questions.

Anatomy of a Community College Faculty Diversity Program

“…The stories of minority members need to be heard and can challenge stereotypes and contribute to identity development (Taylor, 1998). In a similar manner, feminist gender theory suggests that gender, class, and race socialization interact to perpetuate inequities in society in general and within community colleges to be specific (Bechtold, 2008). National and state-level data suggest that hiring inequities exist within community colleges, and the impact of inequities on the educational experience of students cannot be underestimated.…”

“…Many factors may account for gender equity. Genders may segregate into professions consistent with gender stereotypes and institutions based on academic prestige (Bechtold, 2008;Stanley, 2006). The egalitarian environment of community colleges may also explain the gender parity.…”

Women and leadership: building sustainable pathways for women in community college administration

“…Personal choices around family responsibilities also can play a part in the decision-making related to career planning as women consider personal life issues to have high priority (Airini et al, 2011). Bechtold (2008) suggests that the preferable gender traits for the ideal worker in teaching and administration at community colleges must include dedication and ability to separate personal and professional lives. Women are less likely to be able to separate personal and professional lives.…”