Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Are you equitable?

Equity - a wonderful word as long as everyone has it, but we know that isn't true. Everyone does not have equity. Schools are not funded equitably, unions are not treated equitably where there are unions, people are not taxed equitably and on and on. What about in a classroom? How does equity play out in a classroom full of students? Students - both boys and girls are the first to pick up on who the favorites are or who is "in" or who remains on the "fringe." Do teachers know? Do we fully understand the ways that we help to keep someone on the outside while allowing others on the inside? I would like to think I do things the right way but I also know that in reflecting on my own practices, I am more than willing to help those who are willing to incorporate new things in to their classrooms and those who just don't get it. I am not talking about using "tools" just to use them. But that is not right wither. So what about the child who is given greater access to a teacher than another student is given? Equitable? We talk about bullying a lot and in so many different ways, but are we helping to establish a bullying system by these seemingly small inequities of access to a teacher or to technology? Is it any different that through my actions I am able to keep someone on the fringe as opposed to the "inner circle?" Is that merely a more subtle type of bullying? I have a lot to learn and so little time left to learn it, but I am looking for some real answers to these questions because I know that I am really thinking about how I might be creating inequities as a result of what I do. Anyone care to jump in and help out? I hope so.

6 comments:

Scott S. Floyd said...

You are the last person to leave anyone out. It just isn't in you.

Maybe not the answer you were looking for, but it is the truth.

Durff said...

Coffee for all I say!

Anonymous said...

Interesting post, Paul. I would suggest that the fact that you're questioning yourself indicates that you are aware of what's happening about you. Not all can make that claim. Keep doing what you know is right in your mind - nobody can really ask for more.

Paul R. Wood said...

Scott, I appreciate you comment, but what I was wondering is that one of the ways that we help to create a possible "caste" system in our classrooms or schools that lead to other types of things like bullying. Just some thoughts rubling around in my head for sure.

Paul R. Wood said...

Durff, I don't do coffee but thanks anyway.

Paul R. Wood said...

Doug, I would like to think I keep everyone involved and included to the fullest extent. Just curious as to the possible connections with those who play favorites and whether or not that contributes to the problems with what students then do to others. Just some thoughts. Thanks for yours.