A primary motive for single-sex educational environments is student focus. Educators in such schools, supported by some parents, feel that boys and girls can concentrate more on learning and academics when not faced with male-female social pressure. Studies generally show similar levels of academic performance in segregated and coed environments. However, teachers in single-sex schools can gear the classroom environment and training processes to fit those typically viewed or proven as ideal for a particular gender.
The primary criticism of single-gender schools is that they don't allow students to learn in a more real-world setting with males and females. According to critics, this can cause problems when students get into jobs with workers of the both sexes. Similarly, segregated schools may lead to gender discrimination, as educators train male students differently than female students in isolated settings, according to a February 2011 American Psychological Association article.
A key benefit of a coed school is that it more likely prepares students for a mixed-gender workplace. Students gain experience interacting with and communicating with students of both genders. Additionally, some educators and parents feel that students are more relaxed and comfortable in a mixed-gender learning environment. This can lead to an enhanced feeling of social belonging among students, improving confidence, esteem and overall school involvement.
The American Psychological Association article cites advocates of single-gender schools who point out that coed environments simply haven't worked to drive high levels of academic performance. They argue that classrooms can't be set up to take advantage of gender-specific environments or learning styles. Additionally, teen challenges, including pregnancy and relationship stress, are more likely to impede or distract students faced with the daily realities of a coed school.