A survey of 154 women who are professionals in technology education asked what can be done to improve the enrollment and retention of females in technology education in secondary schools. Suggestions include redefining the curriculum, educating guidance counselors, changing scheduling and requirements, trying single-sex classes, and establishing…

Presque Isle (Maine) High School has offered a section of all-girls algebra for seven years. The intent was to narrow the gap between 11th-grade boys' and girls' math achievement scores and create a more comfortable learning atmosphere for girls. The achievement score gap has decreased from 72 to 16 points. (MLH)

This study examined two hypotheses related to same-gender grouping of eighth grade science classes in a public middle school setting. The hypotheses were (a) male and female students enrolled in same-gender science classes demonstrate more positive science academic achievement than their peers enrolled in mixed-gender classes, and (b) same-gender…

In a three-year study, female students from all-female computer science (CS) classes were compared to male and female students from mixed-gender CS classes. Participants were 250 students enrolled in an elective Grade 11 CS course. The study provides some initial empirical evidence supporting the positive effects of all-female classes in CS at the…

Education and employment experiences were compared for women in mixed-gender (n=27) and same-sex (n=73) management certificate programs. Although both groups enhanced knowledge, income, and career advancement, same-sex classes were associated with greater gains in management level, income, and critical awareness of gendered occupational…

Despite scoring lower on the mathematics Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT-M) prior to taking an advanced placement calculus course, female students (n=85) scored as well as males (n=51) on the Advanced Placement BC level calculus test. Predictors of AP scores were: first, scores on the Calculus Readiness Test; second, scores on the SAT-M; and…

This paper explores the policy of single-sex classes that is currently being adopted in some schools as a strategy for addressing boys educational and social needs. It draws on research in one Australian government, coeducational primary school to examine teachers' and students' experiences of this strategy. Interviews with the principal, male and…

This article provides options and a rationale for expanding gender-grouping considerations to include single-gender, coed, and combination strategies for instruction in secondary physical education classes. This rationale is based on empirical evidence that suggests that female students are denied equal opportunity to achieve learning goals during…

Discusses the different learning styles of gifted middle-school males and females in single-sex algebra classes. Discusses the barriers faced by girls in mathematics courses and the benefits of providing girls with opportunities to think and problem solve in an environment less permeated with societal expectations of femininity. (CR)

Examines students' perceptions of learning settings in single-sex and mixed-sex mathematics classes and teachers' responses to those different classroom contexts. Concludes that single-sex classrooms provide a more supportive environment for girls but a significantly less supportive environment for boys. The single-sex environment provides…

Discusses stages of competency development, using the seasons of the year as a metaphor. Identifies educational strategies that outdoor educators can use at each stage to help women overcome gender role socialization pressures that discourage them from achieving or recognizing their true competency levels. (TD)

First grade disadvantaged children were separated into classes by sex and taught by a teacher of the same sex. It was hypothesized that (1) single sex classes would score higher on reading and arithmetic tests and show a more positive attitude toward school, teacher, and peers than coeducational classes, and (2) the one all-girls class would score…

Much research identifies a gender gap in mathematics and some research points to single-gender mathematics classrooms as a solution to the mathematics gender divide. A 7-week study was conducted in which 5th grade students (N=50) were organized into two mathematics classes. The goal was to examine whether single-gender mathematics classes had an…

Colleges and universities are experimenting with female-only courses, which may be taught by men but discourage male student enrollment. Supporters feel the classes boost female self-esteem and provide a less competitive atmosphere. The courses frequently concern women's issues and encourage women to share personal experiences and views. Many…

Compared two single-sex and two coeducational fifth-grade classes (90 students) from inner-city schools for academic achievement. Class grades were consistently higher in the single-sex classes, although the difference was not always statistically significant. Standardized-test data showed no trend, although coeducational groups performed better…