Introduction/Objective:

in this research is reported an exploratory study performed with university students about their conceptions on the gender relationships in higher education.

Methodology:

data were obtained by means of an open questionnaire answered by 149 participants (47 men and 102 women) from diferent courses and institutions. The acknowledge and analysis of some social situations, such as the gender predominance in specific areas and historical differences between women and men in Science yet revealed acritical conceptions. For example, the nature of caring is still attributed as a feminine characteristic that presentes a low intellectual value.

Result:

such views can unfold in attitudes of discrimination that act in maintaining the current status quo, as they hinder some tasks, especially in the scientific field. Abandoning understandings and practices of a patriarchal society is not simple or natural.

Conclusion:

there is still a need for a critical analysis and the questioning of the means of production and division of labor, as well as of behaviors and attitudes throughout the life course.

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