Work

Exploring staff perceptions of gender attainment gaps: A case study within a Post-92 United Kingdom university sports department

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Research shows that globally, women/girls academically outperform men/boys across educational levels. Yet despite high enrolments onto UK sports degree programmes, limited research has investigated staff views on this matter. This study explored academics' perceptions of gender-related attainment gaps within undergraduate sport programmes at a post-92 university. Of 45 survey respondents, only 16% perceived gaps, and most did not view gender bias as an issue. Qualitative comments suggested women students’ self-regulation may contribute to gaps, as staff linked attainment to perceived differences in study behaviours. However, considerable staff uncertainty regarding gender-related attainment suggests awareness-raising as a first step in addressing disparities.

Source: Journal of Hospitality Leisure Sport & Tourism Education

DOI: 10.1016/j.jhlste.2026.100621

Authors: Alex Edmonds, Chloe Slipman, Nicola McCullogh, Paul Ansdell, Rick Hayman

Institution: Northumbria University

Language: English

Topic: Higher Education Research Studies

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Gender equality, Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,540