Skip to 0 minutes and 12 seconds Welcome to the gender equality MOOC, written by Emma Jeanes of the University of Exeter. The course runs over four weeks and should take about three hours each week. In it we explore the nature, causes and consequences of gender inequality The module acts as an introduction to gender inequality and covers some of the core ideas and concepts relevant to the topic. At the end of each week there are further resources for those who would like to explore the topic in more depth. Each week will comprise articles, videos, discussions and end of week tests so you can check your progress.
Skip to 0 minutes and 50 seconds In the first week we introduce some of the core concepts, tackling questions such as: what do we mean by gender?, and gender inequality? We will provide some historical context to the nature and causes of gender inequality and also introduce the topic of intersectionality and the gendered nature of language. In the second week we explore gender inequality in the workplace, including the gendering of roles and occupations, gendered stereotypes, gender inequality in progression and its consequences such as the gender pay gap, the barriers facing women in the workplace, and sexual harassment. In the third week we explore gender inequality as it is manifest in the home, and society more widely.
Skip to 1 minute and 30 seconds In this week we will consider how certain spaces have become gendered, and provide some historical context to why women have been more traditionally associated with the home than men. We will explore the representation of women in politics and address why the nature of occupations matters when ensuring women have power. We will also explore notions of ‘ideal men’ and ‘ideal women’ and how they are represented in the media. We’ll take a particular look at how Hollywood influences our perceptions of gender. In the final week we discuss what can be done to tackle gender inequality in these various settings by considering what is currently being done to achieve gender equality and what more can be done.
Skip to 2 minutes and 13 seconds We will also evaluate the effectiveness of some interventions and the extent to which there has been progress towards succeeding in making society more gender equal. Please take every opportunity to engage in the discussions to enhance your learning. Lauren We hope you enjoy the module and find it rewarding.