Open Access“Holding up Half the Sky”—Women and the Glass Ceiling at a University in China
Author(s) -
Kathy O’Sullivan
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of education, teaching and social studies
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2642-2336
pISSN - 2642-2328
DOI - 10.22158/jetss.v1n2p58
Subject(s) - glass ceiling , china , qualitative research , gender studies , higher education , sociology , psychology , pedagogy , political science , social science , law
The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study is to describe the glass ceiling is perceived by women in the role of mid-to-senior level academics and administrators in higher education in a Chinese university. This study also sought to understand the characteristics of women in mid-to-senior level positions, as well as the tools and resources necessary for women to obtain such a position in higher education. Drawing on in-depth interviews with eight women in mid-to-senior level academic and administrative positions in one university and informed by constructivist views, the essence of their lived experience helped to inform a broader discourse of women and the glass ceiling. The ?ndings highlight how women’s career progression is shaped by cultural norms and conventions.