Navigating Gender Bias in Academia: Experiences of Women Music Teacher Educators

Abstract

In this phenomenological study, we explored women music teacher educators’ experiences navigating gender bias in academia. Our research questions were: (1) How do participants describe their experiences in academia? and (2) How do age, rank, experience, geographic region, or school type/size impact their descriptions of their experiences with gender bias and marginalization in academia? We explored the experiences of eight participants in varied stages of their careers (assistant, associate, full professor ranks), concentration areas (chorus, general, instrumental), and schools and locations throughout the United States. Analysis of the data revealed two overarching themes. The first theme, socialization, included four subthemes: (a) socialized gender expectations in the workplace and in their personal lives; (b) gendered service expectations; (c) faculty life, including students’ expectations of their professors; and (d) family life, including unsupportive institutional policies related to maternity leave and childcare. The second theme, coping strategies, included how tenure protections empowered participants to advocate for themselves and others. Developing coalitions with other women colleagues also was impactful. Recommendations for further research and suggestions for practice are discussed.