Understanding Gendered Dimensions of Empathy in Classroom Interactions: Case Study of Degree Colleges of Kamrup (Metro), Guwahati, Assam, India

Abstract

In the educational scenario, teachers must build rapport with their students. Along with the various teaching skills, the teacher needs empathic understanding to create a positive learning environment in the classroom. To involve the students in the teaching-learning environment and motivate them to learn, the teachers' empathy plays a great role. However, empathy in an individual is closely associated with their gender. Studies have shown that both male and female teachers differ in empathy levels.  In this present study, an attempt has been made to study the need for this particular social emotion, i.e., empathy, in the teaching-learning culture and how gender affects practicing empathy in it. For this study, an exploratory research method has been employed. Both quantitative and qualitative data are collected. Self-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, and case studies are employed to gather the required information. The study found that teachers' empathy significantly influences students' overall growth.