Perceptions of Gender Equality in Higher Education: A Comparative Study between Engineering and Other Academic Areas

Abstract

Gender equality in higher education is key to the development of more equitable and inclusive societies. This study analyzes and compares perceptions of gender equality among engineering students and those in other academic areas, considering the sociocultural, personal, and relational dimensions. A quantitative approach with a non-experimental, descriptive, and comparative design was used, applying the ACTIG questionnaire to 278 students from different disciplines. The results showed a predominance of sexist attitudes in all areas, especially in Psychology (97%) and Law (96%), while egalitarian attitudes were scarce. Engineering and Medicine showed greater openness to adaptive attitudes, although without reaching significant levels of equity. Moreover, sex was a determining factor in the perception of gender equality, while age had a limited impact. These findings underscore the persistence of stereotypes and structural barriers that affect equity in higher education. It is recommended to implement educational strategies and institutional policies that promote a more inclusive academic culture, in order to reduce gender inequalities and foster equity in all disciplines.