Teaching masculinity: an examination of the professional literature and design of a curriculum of Men's Studies 12 targeting at-risk adolescent males

This qualitative project explored the implementation impetus and barriers to the creation of a men's studies program in a rural Canadian school district. Student engagement in several countries and continents has drawn significant academic attention over the last decade and statistical evidence of lack of engagement, poor attendance, inappropriate behavior, school suspension, special education enrolment, and low graduation rates demonstrates an oversubscription by male students. Using school district qualitative and quantitative data, I examined the local need to create a program of studies which would support culturally appropriate constructions of masculinity. Then, using a synthesis of international research literature and supporting materials from a variety of sources, I outlined the actual men's studies program with its overt (and hidden) learning outcomes. The project concluded with a series of recommendations, the most notable recommendation being that a men's studies program should be implemented in a pilot alternate school with specific caveats.