GENDER REPRESENTATION IN SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY TEXTBOOKS

Abstract

This study explores how gender is represented in school and university textbooks. Because textbooks shape how learners understand social roles, the way men and women appear in texts and images can either reinforce or challenge stereotypes. The study examines selected textbooks by counting male and female characters, looking at the professions, activities, and traits given to each, and analyzing the language used to describe them. It combines quantitative content analysis, qualitative analysis, and critical discourse analysis, and compares materials across education levels. Based on earlier research, male characters are expected to be more visible and to hold more public and professional roles, while women are likely to appear more often in domestic roles and be described through appearance and emotion. The findings will add Uzbek data to educational linguistics and gender studies and can help authors, teachers, and policymakers create more balanced teaching materials.