Urban Schools

The purpose of this study is to use observations, questionnaires, and discussions with the principal investigator to encourage awareness of gender equitable teaching behaviors of K-5 classroom teachers at an elementary school in the Bronx, New York. During the observations of these teachers, there was a balance seen in the active interactions by teachers calling on both male and female students. Furthermore, this balance in teaching practice was supported by the teachers ' questionnaire responses. Finally, their discussions with the principal investigator provided anecdotal insight into their teaching practice, including comments about higher level thinking, encouragement of students, and effective classroom discipline. The replication of this study in a middle or high school setting is recommended to determine if teaching adolescents will show differences and/or similarities in gender equitable teaching practice. (SM) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. N kr)