A Case Study on the Impact of Gender on Behaviour in the Playground in a Primary School Setting

Abstract

What impact does gender have on behaviours and interactions in the playground? Do boys and girls interact with each other and play together? In order to answer these questions, this study aims to do extensive research on boys’ behaviours and girls’ behaviours, the playground environment, and any other issues that play a role in shaping behaviour in the playground. This case study focuses on a mixed method research approach, combining qualitative methods, interviews and observations, and quantitative methods, questionnaires. Methods included enlisting 70 teacher participants to complete online questionnaires, making observations of children’s behaviours in a school playground setting, and semi-structured interviews with two primary school teachers. After extensive research, overcoming the many obstacles met as a result of the Covid-19 global pandemic. The study in question found that boys play the dominant role in the playground, in regards to monopolising space, and general misbehaviour. Girls tend to shy away from the main play areas as they are dominated by sports e.g. football. Findings point to the importance of creating an inclusive environment with children as the epicentre, and is designed in a way that engages and includes all children and genders. This researcher hopes there will be a national effort to implement programmes which will create a more gender-balanced playground environment for children in the future i.e. lunchtime walking club, social play areas, circuits and a quiet area.