Abstract

of

MASTER OF ARTS IN EDUCATION GENDER EQUITY STUDIES: ANALYSIS OF CAREER AND SOCIAL RELEVANCE IN GRADUATE’S LIVES

by

Donna Dexter

Statement of the Problem

This study was designed to examine the career and social impact of a Masters of Arts in Education Gender Behavioral Sciences Gender Equity degree on graduates from California State University, Sacramento. This study will address the questions of how graduates are using their degrees and thesis research. Overall, this study sought to obtain a better understanding of the experiences of graduate students within this program and to discover ways in which graduates are implementing their gender equity training.

Sources of Data

Two sources of data were analyzed: an open-ended questionnaire that focused on the personal experience of the graduates who participated as well as an inquiry involving the use of their thesis research, and a Likert survey designed to measure participants’ practices and experiences as gender equity advocates. The methodology employed for this study involved both qualitative and quantitative research designs. Participants were required to fill out a survey. Qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic approach while quantitative data collected was analyzed for statistical significance.

Conclusions Reached

Significant findings in the quantitative data found that participants were more likely to discuss gender equity issues as a result of being a graduate from this program; participants believed that gender equity programs are needed, to raise awareness of gender bias; and having flexibility of design of the graduate program was important. Themes from the qualitative data revealed that most participants used their MA degree in their current jobs and most participants felt that having a mentor to help with their graduate studies was preferable.