Gender equality : increasing women’s visibility and representation in language education

The representation and visibility of women in language education and teaching materials, in particular, have raised an increasing number of questions and debates. The underrepresentation of women in language programs and textbooks perpetuates gender stereotypes and substantially restricts diverse opportunities and qualifications that can broaden and ensure an optimal and prosperous learning environment for all students, regardless of their gender and social status. The aim of this study is to review existing research and examine the issue of gender equality in language education, with a particular focus on strategies and approaches to increase women's visibility and representation in language learning environments. This study seeks to identify barriers that prevent women from achieving equal representation and visibility through examining current practices, policies, and perceptions related to gender in language education. In addition, this study explores effective initiatives and successful programs that have been implemented to promote gender equality in language education, with the goal of providing practical recommendations for both educators and decision-makers.