The Representation of Gender in Korean and Spanish as Foreign Language Textbooks

Abstract

This study examines the portrayal of gender roles in 6 foreign language textbooks: 3 Spanish textbooks taught in Korea and 3 Korean textbooks taught in Spain. The aim of this study was to examine the vision presented in the textbooks, whether they included gender role stereotypes in their illustrations, professional occupation, adjectives, and content related to both genders. These textbooks were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively, and then compared to determine which textbooks portrayed more gender stereotypes. The results showed that all textbooks contained traditional gender stereotypes in all categories. With the exception of Yonsei 1-1, the stereotyped roles were always dominant. Gendered appearances, occupations, adjectives and content were particularly noticeable in the Spanish textbooks used in Korea. This study highlights the need to review foreign language materials from a feminist and critical perspective to improve students' understanding of gender in the context of language and culture being studied.