Abstract :
[en] Textbooks serve as primary teaching resources that are used consistently over many years (Stará et al., 2017), especially during the period when gender role identity is being formed (Ruble et al., 2006). School textbooks play a crucial role in shaping societal perceptions of which occupations are commonly associated with men or women (Fruehwirth & al., 2024). Published in 2021 (Kerger & Brasseur, 2021) and 2023 (Kerger, Pianaro & Schadeck, 2023) the studies conducted in Luxembourg on gender representations in primary education and the lower cycle of secondary education textbooks showed a prevalence of gender stereotypes, indicating an androcentric view. In addition to gender imbalance, the studies reveal a marginalisation of people of colour, people with disabilities, as well as LGBTQ+ people. Gender inclusive language is not used in a cohesive way.
As one of the recommendations of the project, and as a response to recent petition against LGBTQ+-topics in minor’s education (2024), the current study aims to develop a pedagogical resource for primary teachers in Luxembourg with the intention of fostering awareness about gender stereotypes, unequal gender representations in professions and among famous people, the underrepresentation of marginalised groups, and the importance of inclusive language. The pedagogical resource will be developed with teachers for teachers and freely available online in Luxembourgish and English.
The resource will be developed in collaboration with teachers attending topic-related formation continue at the end of 2024 that will support teachers in creating interactive activities, games, and exercises that actively engage children in questioning stereotypes and encouraging critical thinking and empathy. The proposed conference presentation will feature information about past and present projects, the workshop’s structure, aims, and plan for the pedagogical resource.
The objective of this follow-up project is to establish the foundations for a more equitable and inclusive society by instilling these values from an early age.
