Social representations and experiences of sexism in teachers from Santiago and Valparaíso

Abstract

Recognizing the school as a fundamental space for gender socialization, the article describes the representations that teachers have about gender, sexuality, sexism in education and recent changes in gender relations. 5 focus groups were held, 4 in Santiago and 1 in Valparaíso between 2018 and 2019, which were analyzed using the NVIVO 11 program. The conclusions indicate that teachers understand the aspects related to sexist education and the factors that reproduce it or question it. Tensions are observed between teachers and students regarding issues of sexism, as well as within the teaching staff, between newly graduated teachers and those who have been teaching for more years. It is recommended to reinforce the initial training of teachers in sexuality and gender and to train already qualified teachers to face the challenges that social changes impose on the educational system.