Assessing the Beyond Words Educational Model for Empowering Women, Decreasing Prejudice and Enhancing Empathy
Nitsan Gordon MA DTR, Wafa Zidan M.Sc.
Summary of Research Findings
This study examines changes in the attitudes towards sex roles, needs and obligations of Arab women studying early childhood education and changes in emotional awarenessof both Arab and Jewish women and men studying education. The intervention experienced by 94 students over the course of one or two semesters is a multi disciplinary approach called Beyond Words. The participants were compared at two points – a week after the beginning of the course and two weeks before its completion and were compared to a control group that did not undergo the intervention. Significant differences were found in the first part of the study dealing with attitudes towards sex roles both in the before and after measures and in comparison with the control group. Women in the experimental group became more confident and more liberal in how they viewed themselves and their ideal role model. The qualitative questionnaire findings clearly advise of the emotional change experienced upon the completion of the course. According to these personal testimonials it seems that the course significantly increased emotional awareness and flexibility in thoughts and feelings as well as acceptance and empathy towards others.
.jpg){kind=small}
