[Page 615]Gender plays a significant role in access to education and the quality of educational experiences of boys and girls as well as of men and women. Historically, males have had greater access to formal education than their female counterparts. Beginning in the latter half of the 19th century and throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, access to education for both males and females increased, as developed and many developing countries instituted free, compulsory public education for all children. This entry provides an overview of factors that influence gender parity (i.e., equal participation of males and females) and gender equality (i.e., educational opportunities that result in equally meaningful outcomes and benefits) across all levels of education.