|
Tuesday, 06 February 2007 |
Gender divide harmful to college atmosphere
The growing issue of gender divide among institutions of higher education is a problem that, if ignored any longer, could be very harmful to the demographic of the college atmosphere.
The Appalachian believes a push toward more male-oriented outlets would be paramount in addressing this problem.
An irony exists in that the higher paying positions of the workforce
are still held predominately by men. However, in the college setting,
women are becoming the smarter leaders.
Though the inequity that exists in the workforce is intolerable, the college divide is equally troubling.
Furthermore, it seems that tackling the gender divide on the collegiate level is more attainable than in the professional world.
One solution would be to implement courses on issues that pertain
strictly to men. Subjects such as contemporary issues for men or
interpersonal relationship building would be a strong start to such
areas of study.
Appalachian State University’s Women’s Center is very helpful in
addressing issues that pertain strictly to women. From leadership
conferences to sponsored events, the Women’s Center is a vital part of
the female university culture.
Why can’t there be a men’s center – or something similar – in order to address problems men have?
There seems to be very few outlets strictly for men outside of fraternities.
However, only 8 percent of Appalachian’s campus is involved in Greek
life. The wide majority of men are out of reach from these programs and
events.
The Bart Simpson syndrome – college men excel in video game playing,
partying and exercising – is very real. However, it is widely ignored
as the norm.
Regardless of how this standard of expectation for college men was arrived at, it needs to be reversed.
The only way this trend can get reversed is by a stronger push from universities to reach out to its male students.
The six-year graduation rate is 10 percent less for men. The number of
leadership positions on campus is dominated by women. Men need programs
that help them excel at Appalachian.
Though the job force is still full of inequalities between men and women, that does not mean this problem should be ignored.
Women of past generations paved the way for college women of today. Now
it’s time for university women to lend their tips for success to
university men.
Trackback(0)
 |
TrackBack URI for this entry
Show/Hide comments