PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF WOMEN'S HIGHER EDUCATION (CASE STUDY IN BATU PUTIH VILLAGE)

This study aims to determine the Public Perception of the Importance of Higher Education for Women Case Study in Batu Putih Village, Sekotong District, West Lombok Regency. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive research method. The type of research used in this research is a phenomenological research type because this research is categorized as a case study research. This research is located in Batu Putih Village, Sekotong District, West Lombok Regency with the research subjects being the Batu Putih Village community, Community Leaders and the general public. The data collection technique is in the form of primary data by means of open observation, interviews and direct observation. While the secondary data sources in this study are written data in the form of livelihood data, education level, and educational institutions in Batu Putih Village. Data analysis in the study was carried out using qualitative analysis. The results of this study explain that women who continue their education to a higher level are fewer, when compared to men in Batu Putih village because there are several public perceptions about the importance or unimportance of higher education for women. Then some of these public perceptions are as follows. First, higher education for women is important. Second, higher education for women is important, but education is not the main priority for women. Third, higher education for women is sufficient only to be able to read and write. Fourth, higher education for women is not important because women's duties are as housewives. Keywords: Community Perceptions, Higher Education, and Women