Gender Stereotypes and the Role of Women in Higher Education (Azerbaijan Case Study)

Gender stereotypes are common among students of both sexes and among the teachers and students' family environment. In addition to communication processes, they are manifested in the phenomenon of gender-based division of learning and the hidden curriculum. In developing countries, the problem of access to higher education is also unsolved, not only because of socioeconomic reasons but also because of psychological reasonsdevaluation of education and professional potential of women. These factors have a negative influence on social and economic processes in general. The study of gender stereotypes is the foundation for strategies' development to overcome gender inequality and implementing a model of gender parity (egalitarian model). This model assumes that the change must take place on both sides: the impact on people's behavior by laws prohibiting discrimination, providing financial support and openings for women students; and changes in belief prevailing in the society by initiating discussions in media, educational institutions, and community organizations with a reasoned positioning of gender equality importance.