Manlike en vroulike onderwysstudente : 'n vergelykende psigologiese studie

Abstract

MALE AND FEMALE STUDENT TEACHERS: A COMPARATIVE PSYCHOLOGICAL STUDY The feminisation of the teaching profession, especially in the primary schools, gives cause for concern. Added to this concern is the small number of male students enrolling at the different colleges of education in the Transvaal, as well as the fact that they are considered to be less intelligent than the female students and having less potential. This could be detrimental to the teaching profession. A comparative study was done with male and female students in their final year of training at an educational college. The following instruments of measurement were used in order to compare the two groups: a. A Biographical Questionnaire b. The NSAG c. The PHSF d. The 16 PF The students' final academic results were also compared. The most important findings are the following: Significantly more male students expressed a desire to hold a position of leadership. Vocational guidance at school did not influence either group in their vocational choice. As motivation for choosing the teaching profession the female students scored highest on interest in children, while most of the male students believed that they would best realise themselves in the teaching profession. Contradictory to general belief no significant difference was found in the I.Q.-counts of the two groups, although the female students achieved better academic results. This would imply that the male students did not perform according to their intellectual abilities. According to the results of the PHSF, the female students show lower scores than the males in self-confidence and self-esteem. They reveal a larger extent of nervousness which is indicative of an underlying condition of tension. The male students show better adaption in social relationships and a better overall personal adjustment. This is further confirmed by the 16 PF results showing the male students to be more self-assured and self-dependent. They also show greater emotional stability and have a more realistic view of life. The male students have a more extrovert disposition and a greater lust for adventure. The female students tend to be more submissive and dependent. They are more prone to tension and are emotionally more spontaneous and easily involved. The conclusion arrived at is that the male students show a better adapted and stronger personal image than the female students, though the male students did not perform according to their intellectual abilities, it would seem that the concern about an inferior male student is unjustified. The following are recommended: a. According to the survey of literature, more male teachers in the primary school will be beneficial to the pupils, especially the boys. b. The training of male teachers for the junior primary classes should be considered. c. Higher qualifications for admission to the teaching profession should be demanded. d. Better vocational guidance at school where more attention should be given to the advantages of the teaching profession in order to get more boys interested in the profession. e. Attention should be given to the study habits of male students at the colleges. Compulsory study hours in the hostels should be considered. Stricter selection during training would provide motivation for better academic achievement. f. A more balanced division of time devoted to extra-mural activities (sport, cultural and social) and academic work for male students.