Evaluation Bias In The Business Classroom: Evidence Relating To The Effects Of Previous Experiences

We found that teaching evaluations were assigned as a function of the professors\u27 gender and students\u27 previous experience with a female professor. Based on the professor\u27s style of organization, enthusiasm, credibility, and effectiveness, and students\u27 willingness to take a course with the professor, students assigned higher evaluations to male professors than female professors. Previous experience with a female faculty member was found to be a relevant variable influencing perceived credibility, organization, and effectiveness evaluations. The findings imply that exposure to women in positions of responsibility may reduce stereotypical attitudes regarding women\u27s ability to function in gender-atypical roles. © 1991 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC