Girls in higher secondary education: a comparison of the unequal participation of girls in Switzerland in the 20th century

Abstract

This article presents the development of girls’ participation in higher secondary schools in Switzerland during the 20th century based on comprehensive long-term statistical data. First of all, the large historical differences between Swiss Cantons are presented and three phases of the varying participation of girls in grammar school are derived. Explanations for the differences identified are developed with a view to the structural differentiation of higher secondary education. This allows us to discuss the importance of institutional frameworks for gender differences in schools.