Final answer:
Gillion (2008) suggested strategies to address gender disparities, such as avoiding gender-based praise and interruptions, and creating environments like the Egalia preschool for gender-neutral development. Community programs that foster open dialogue across genders and ages can also reduce gender stratification.
Step-by-step explanation:
Strategies for Working More Effectively with Males in Educational and Community Settings
Gillion (2008) highlighted the need for approaches that can help in working more effectively with males. From the classroom dynamic to strategies at community levels, there is recognition that gender socialization begins from a very early age and impacts both males and females differently. Teachers, according to Sadker and Sadker (1994), have traditionally praised male students more than female students, leading to an imbalance in academic and social recognition. More importantly, boys often receive more opportunities to expand on ideas while girls are interrupted more often.
To address these disparities, changing how we engage with children is essential. As part of creating a more egalitarian society, we can take cues from the Egalia preschool in Sweden, which uses gender-neutral terms and provides a genderless environment to help children develop without the reinforcement of traditional gender expectations. Additionally, in community practices, programs like the GHD Program have created safe spaces for dialogue that includes all gender and age groups, which helps to increase communication and lessen gender stratification effects.
Within educational settings, rather than focusing on gender-appropriate activities, incorporating strategies that promote cooperation and rule equality can contribute to a more balanced treatment of all genders. These approaches might include crafting curriculums and activities that allow both boys and girls to engage in a wider variety of experiences without reinforcing traditional gender roles. It's about creating learning environments and community spaces that value contributions equally, regardless of gender, and which to celebrate achievements irrespective of gender-normative behaviors.
In conclusion, efforts that actively challenge traditional gender socialization practices and promote gender equality can be highly effective in fostering an inclusive environment where both males and females can thrive.