Examination of primary school 4th grade students' perspectives on gender statements

There are defined roles for men and women in society. With these roles, the behaviors of men and women are shaped by the roles envisaged by the society as a part of the society in which they live. These roles are also effective in the formation of gender identities in children. When schools are considered as a simulation of society, schools can be seen as places where these roles are taught by society. Students are directly or indirectly affected by everything from the games played in the schools, the materials used, the seating arrangement, the duties and responsibilities expected from the students. In this research, students' perceptions of gender in society and their perspectives on the stereotypes on which these perceptions are based; It is aimed to examine in the context of professions, social life and role and status in society. This research, which aims to examine the perspectives of primary school 4th grade students on stereotypes based on gender, is a descriptive study designed according to the qualitative method. In the study, the students' perspectives on gender were tried to be described qualitatively. "Gender Perception Form (TCAF)" was used as a measurement tool in the research. TCAF, which includes the scenarios prepared for the research, was applied to a total of 38 children, 15 of whom were private school students and 23 public school students, who were studying in the 4th grade of primary school in Adana province central districts. As a result of the research, the students who applied TCAF, which includes 8 scenarios related to the themes; It has been determined that they are against gender discrimination in the professional sense and they want girls and boys to be free in choosing a profession. It has been determined that there are many students who accept gender discrimination in choosing a profession. Students have a positive perception of gender stereotypes regarding roles and status and social life. Some students have confusion about this. Therefore, it has been concluded that students with this understanding tend to balance more on gender discrimination. In terms of gender, students' perspectives on gender stereotypes are close and similar. In terms of school type, students in public schools are somewhat more sensitive than private schools. As a result of the research, it was seen that most of the primary school fourth grade students' perspectives on gender stereotypes in the context of professions, role and status, and social life were close to the expected level. However, there are also students whose perceptions on this subject can be interpreted as negative. While preparing education programs on these issues, more sensitive behavior can be done, and students can be given training that can improve their behaviors and awareness on this subject at school and outside of school.