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Title IX is a comprehensive federal law that requires gender equality in all educational programs that receive federal funding. That includes sport teams, most high schools and public universities — like Utah State. But contrary to popular belief (or at least, what Utah State University students think) Title IX applies to more than just sports. The American Civil Liberties Union has declared that when students suffer sexual assault or harassment, they are deprived of equal and free access to an education — so Title IX has a broad span.

There are ten key provisions of Title IX. Although some people think it only applies to athletics, it applies to all of these areas:

Title IX affects unfairness in admissions, financial aid and other areas of higher education. It was more of an issues before the 70’s, when women weren’t allowed at many colleges and universities.

Title IX plays a role in career education. That encompasses vocational courses, like home ec and woodshop. Nowadays, men are allowed to sew and women are can learn metalworking.

Many women used to be expelled form school for becoming pregnant. While enrollment in separate programs is now an option, some parents and pregnant women still opt out.

In the classroom, males used to be seen as active, inventive and brave. Women were dependent, nurturing and accommodating. Nowadays, instructors are required to show equal attention and have a supportive learning environment in all subject areas.

While women have held jobs for many years now, they typically held more traditional roles. Equal opportunity allows women to work in whatever position they are qualified for. Different groups are now working toward equal pay.

People used to think girls didn’t like math and science. High school girls can now take upper-level math and science courses. However, participation in these courses declines dramatically throughout the average girl’s educational career.

The Supreme Court has ruled that sexual harassment interferes with educational opportunities, and Title IX is under obligation to address and prevent sexual harassment.

The law states that “tests must be valid predictors of success in the areas being tested and that they measure what they say they measure.” If this standard is not met and the results are slanted toward one sex, it may be unlawful.

While computer programming has typically been considered a male territory, men and women now spend an equal amount of time on computers at home and at school. As girls graduate from high school, it seems their interest in computers dwindles.

That’s Title IX… on paper. It sounds like a great idea in writing, but our group is going to be looking at the practical application of three areas.

Sexual harassment.

College athletics.

And Affirmative Action.