Reto educativo. La incorporación de la perspectiva de género en los libros de texto. Contrastes y semejanzas entre los manuales empleados en Castelo Branco, Portugal y Michoacán, México

The aim of this paper is to present the analysis results of a set of textbooks in order to find out whether the images contained in them promote the principles of equality and gender equity. The sample for the study consists of a total of six manuals the school year 2010/2011, three of Michoacán, México, and three of Castelo Branco, Portugal, corresponding to science subjects, language and geography. Were conducted mixed method approach strategies, because the use of quantitative methods and qualitative offers the possibility of developing an analysis that, in addition to compare the data obtained, elaborates on the topics addressed. Results indicate that adolescents do not have, in textbooks examined, enough references that enable them to break / deconstruct gender stereotypes traditionally attributed to both sexes. Both the illustrations and the content of the same ones show for the most part to women playing roles related psychosocial care of others, while men appear almost always performing paid work and prestige (scientists, rulers). In the conclusions of this article it is questioned the presence of sexism inside textbooks, for convey to the students behavior patterns and models that fit a social reality governed by equality and justice.