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The present study aimed to uncover the factors contributing to the reluctance to pursue teaching as a career in Oman from the perspective of students in grades 10-12. The mixed-design approach was used; quantitative data was collected using a questionnaire (n=3455), while qualitative data was collected through focus group interviews (n=253). Results of the questionnaire indicated that the factors contributing to the reluctance to pursue teaching as a career centered on the difficulty of the career, its lack of financial incentives, and its low social status compared to other careers. Focus groups results showed both negative and positive views towards teaching as a career. Difficulties of dealing with a large number of students, the suspension of teacher promotions, the appointment of teachers in distant schools away from their place of residence were reported by the students. In addition, results indicated gender differences in students’ choice of teaching as a career, with males showing more disinterest in the teaching profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined post-graduate education students’ attitudes towards gender equality. It also explored the factors that influenced their formation, in addition to studying the differences in attitudes due to gender and social status. A mixed design was used. Quantitative data were collected from a random sample of 168 students using a questionnaire prepared by the researchers. The qualitative data were collected from three focus groups with six students each. The findings showed high awareness of women's rights in areas related to family, social and political matters. Female and unmarried students showed attitudes that are more positive. Results indicated that there are factors that influence the formation of students' attitude including family, culture, education, personal and life experiences. Recommendations highlighted the importance of raising the awareness of the community towards the Islamic perspective of the rights and obligations of women and men in addition to linking this to the international humanitranian right laws and agreements, and to issue the necessary policies and laws support their implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]