Do They Already Know? Level of Gender Language Sensitivity Among Education Students

ORCID

0000-0002-4034-6271

Authors

Bethany P. Villanueva, Philippine Normal University-Mindanao, Prosperidad, PhilippinesFollow
Azil Jane Guingguing, Philippine Normal University-Mindanao, Prosperidad, PhilippinesFollow
Bryan Abondo, Philippine Normal University-Mindanao, Prosperidad, PhilippinesFollow
Diane Deuna, Philippine Normal University-Mindanao, Prosperidad, PhilippinesFollow
Adelyne Abrea, Philippine Normal University-Mindanao, Prosperidad, PhilippinesFollow

Abstract

This study, conducted within a Philippine educational setting, assessed gender language sensitivity among education students. Completing two tests, the Gender-Neutral Pronoun Usage test and the Gender-Sensitive Language test, 255 randomly selected first- and second-year students participated. Additional qualitative data was gathered through a Focus Group Discussion. Statistical analysis using ANOVA and Z-tests revealed no significant differences in the use of gender-neutral pronouns based on year level, program, gender identity, and preferred pronouns. However, a significant difference was observed in using gender-sensitive language based on year level and preferred pronouns. Overall, the respondents demonstrated a beginning level of proficiency in both tests. These findings suggest that factors such as year level and program can influence the development of gender-sensitive language. Consequently, while rooted in the Philippine context, the identified influence of educational stage and academic discipline on gender language sensitivity highlights fundamental dynamics that are likely transferable and relevant to inform global educational strategies to foster inclusive communication among students worldwide. The study underscores the importance of targeted educational interventions, such as seminars, discussions, infographics, videos, and forums facilitated by Gender and Development programs, to cultivate a deeper understanding and application of gender-sensitive language among students.

Recommended Citation

Villanueva, Bethany P.; Guingguing, Azil Jane; Abondo, Bryan; Deuna, Diane; and Abrea, Adelyne (2025) "Do They Already Know? Level of Gender Language Sensitivity Among Education Students," Journal of English and Applied Linguistics: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59588/2961-3094.1110
Available at: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/jeal/vol4/iss1/8