This book evolved from a report, commissioned by the Scottish Office Education and Industry Department, which examined gender differences in classroom interaction. The book examines existing research and makes proposals for further action on the topic of whether social interaction in schools perpetuates behavioral differences between males and females. Starting from how classroom interaction might, in theory, result in discrimination, the author provides a review of the evidence, organized around interactive settings which cut across subject areas and school sectors. Chapters on whole-class discussion, desk-based group work, group work around computers, and discussion for oral assessment are followed by a synthesis of findings and discussion of the implications for further research and educational intervention. There are six chapters in the book. Contains 93 references. (EH)