“An accidental heroine” : An Investigation of Gender Representation and Gender-based Stereotypes in Swedish Digital EFL Learning Material

Sammanfattning: The endeavour for gender equality and against gender-based patterns (stereotypes) are topics often discussed in relation to education. Correspondingly, extensive research on textbooks used in schools around the world has been conducted, some of which include the aspect of people beyond the binary. Research shows reinforcement of gender stereotypes and low visibility of females, and an absence of non-binary people. However, some research seems to indicate a change towards a more equal representation, hence the need for continuous research on the topic. In Sweden, there has been a statement in the steering documents about equality in rights and opportunities between men and women since the nineties. Since then, equality has been given greater prominence in the curriculum provided by the Swedish National Agency for Education (Skolverket). However, in the latest edition, the statement has been reformulated, and a gender- inclusive approach has been adopted as it now applies to all students, regardless of their gender identity. Additionally, Skolverket (2022) notes that schools are obliged to contribute to students’ digital competence, which can be done with the use of digital learning materials (DLM). Therefore, the present study seeks to investigate how gender within and beyond the binary is represented in a newly produced DLM called Digilär and to see whether it corresponds to the curriculum by counteracting gender-based stereotypes. To achieve the aim, a content analysis of the DLM is carried through. Furthermore, to deepen the analysis, and produce more valid results, all verbs used to describe characters’ activities and all adjectives used to characterise and portray them were noted and categorised by semantic type following Dixon’s (2005) typology. The findings show a non-existent representation of people beyond the binary, with the exception of groups or individuals without expressed gender. Moreover, male characters are precisely double the number of female characters which demonstrates imbalanced gender representation. Additionally, the findings generally showcase gender-based stereotypes being reinforced.