BGDG 172 Gender Sensibility is a thought-provoking course that aims to create a deeper understanding of gender issues in society. It provides an analytical framework for students to understand the concepts of gender equality, gender roles, gender identity, and sexuality. The course goes beyond theoretical knowledge to develop a practical sensibility towards gender justice, making it an essential study for those interested in social work, education, and any field where human interaction and equality are fundamental.

Introduction to Gender Sensibility

Gender sensibility refers to the awareness and sensitivity towards the needs, experiences, and issues that different genders face in society. In today’s world, discussions around gender equality, representation, and rights have become increasingly significant. The course focuses on understanding the social construction of gender norms, the expectations society places on different genders, and the ways these norms affect individual lives, relationships, and opportunities.

The course also emphasizes the importance of fostering gender sensitization, a process of becoming aware of the challenges faced by different genders, especially women, and addressing these disparities through education and social action.

Understanding Gender Roles and Identities

The concept of gender is not merely biological but is deeply rooted in the cultural, social, and historical contexts that shape an individual's identity and roles in society. The course explores:

• The distinction between sex (biological differences) and gender (social roles and expectations).
• Gender roles assigned to men, women, and non-binary individuals based on social expectations.
• The impact of cultural influences on gender identity, including how religion, family structures, and media shape our perceptions of masculinity, femininity, and other gender expressions.

By analyzing gender roles, students can gain a clearer understanding of how these roles influence individual behavior and societal expectations. This helps challenge the stereotypes and biases that limit human potential based on rigid gender constructs.

Social Construction of Gender Norms

Gender norms are societal rules or expectations about how people should behave based on their gender. These norms can be deeply ingrained in culture, education, family, and media, and they often dictate the career choices, social behavior, and personal identities of individuals.

In this course, students will examine how gender norms are learned through socialization and how they can be restrictive, particularly for women, and non-binary individuals. By understanding how gender norms are constructed, students can better appreciate the ways in which these norms lead to inequalities in education, workplace environments, and political representation.

Students will also explore the concept of gender fluidity and the challenges that arise from non-conforming gender identities. This will foster an understanding of how to move beyond binary gender expectations and embrace a more inclusive and progressive society.

Gender Equality and Women Empowerment

One of the central focuses of the course is gender equality, which is the belief that individuals should have equal rights and opportunities, regardless of their gender. In many parts of the world, particularly in patriarchal societies, gender inequality remains prevalent, affecting various aspects of life, including:

• Economic opportunities
• Access to education
• Health care and reproductive rights
• Political participation

The course examines gender inequality in different cultural contexts, highlighting the historical and contemporary struggles for women’s rights. It also emphasizes women empowerment, discussing how increasing awareness, education, and policy change have enabled women to gain access to previously denied opportunities, particularly in areas such as education, employment, and politics.

Gender empowerment is not just about women; it involves changing attitudes toward masculinity and feminism, promoting equality for all genders. The course investigates strategies to bring about gender balance and to encourage inclusive leadership.

Gender-Related Issues and Solutions

The course delves into current gender-related issues, exploring topics such as:

• Domestic violence, harassment, and sexual assault
• Economic disparities between men and women
• Gender-based violence and the need for legal and social reform
• LGBTQIA+ rights and the fight for gender-neutral policies

The course also analyzes the need for gender-sensitive policies in various fields, including education, healthcare, and workplaces. Special attention is given to the role of legislation and activism in combating gender-based violence and discrimination.

Students will explore both local and global efforts to address these issues, including the role of NGOs, government initiatives, and international organizations that focus on gender justice and human rights.

Gender Sensibility in Daily Life

Gender sensibility is not just about theoretical knowledge; it’s about applying this awareness in everyday situations. The course encourages students to:

• Challenge gender stereotypes and discriminatory practices in personal and professional life.
• Understand the importance of respectful behavior and language towards all genders.
• Take active roles in promoting gender inclusivity and equality in their communities and workplaces.

Practical exercises include role-playing scenarios, case studies, and discussions that encourage students to think critically about how they can become agents of change in reducing gender-based discrimination.