Abstract:

Some studies have shown that introduction of the gender perspective during the educational stage is a key factor in promoting gender equality. This research aims to estimate gender awareness of university students in Cartagena de Indias (Colombia) as well as the contribution of the university in understanding gender inequalities. In addition, we also contrast similarities and differences among fields of study. The research methodology is based on a sample of 262 students from four undergraduate programs in social sciences of that University. We have used quantitative techniques to analyse the information, mainly contingency tables.

Preliminary results show that, before entering university, students had received information on gender and feminist values mainly from their family, friends and their personal inquiry (such as feminist readings) but we observed less influence from the educational system than it would have been desirable. The data analysis also shows that, during their university stage, students improved their perception of gender issues. This change was mainly due to the approach introduced by some teachers in their subjects and to the complementary training in gender, through seminars and research hotbeds, offered by the University of Cartagena. However, in the opinion of students, the role of the university is still insufficient.

Keywords:

Gender Perspective, Higher Education, Gender Awareness, Colombia.