Building Critical Consciousness for Educational Equity | Nicole West-Burns, Ph.D. | TEDxOshawaED

Summary

The speaker explores the concept of equity in education, emphasizing the importance of addressing systemic inequities rather than focusing solely on outcomes. They stress that schools are historically inequitable spaces and that addressing oppression requires ongoing, critical reflection. The talk touches on marginalized groups, like students with disabilities, LGBTQ+ students, and students experiencing poverty, highlighting the need for an inclusive curriculum that reflects diverse histories and identities. By challenging existing norms and building critical consciousness, educators can help create schools where all students feel valued, empowered, and free.

Takeaways

• 💡 Equity vs. Equality: Equity means giving people what they need, not just giving everyone the same thing. The need for equity exists because of systemic inequalities.
• ⚖️ Systemic Inequity: Societal systems, including schools, are inherently inequitable. Privilege and marginalization are based on identity, not a lack of effort or ability.
• 📅 Daily Experiences Matter: It's important to focus on students' daily experiences in school, not just academic outcomes. Schools should enrich students' lives, not drain them.
• 🏫 Schools Have Never Been Equitable: Public school systems, especially in Canada, have historically been inequitable spaces, such as through the oppression of Indigenous children in residential schools.
• 🧠 Unconscious Bias: Everyone, even if unknowingly, holds biases. To fight oppression, individuals must unlearn these internalized prejudices.
• 🌈 Inclusive Curriculum: Schools should have inclusive curricula that reflect diverse identities and experiences, such as LGBTQ+ and disabled students, without stigmatization.
• 💸 Financial Barriers: Equity also involves addressing financial barriers that students face, such as expensive field trips, fees, or internet-based homework that disadvantaged students can't afford.
• 🎓 Girls and Women in Education: Girls should be allowed to fully express themselves in schools without facing sexist standards or curricula that ignore important issues like the oppression of trans and Indigenous women.
• 🌍 Diverse Histories in Curriculum: Black and Indigenous students should see themselves reflected in the curriculum, recognizing their historical contributions, rather than being presented as anomalies or afterthoughts.
• 🔄 Continuous Equity Work: Achieving equity in schools requires an ongoing commitment and critical reflection from educators. It's not a one-time workshop or quick fix but a long-term, conscious effort.

Q & A

What is the difference between equality and equity according to the speaker?

Equality means giving everyone the same resources or opportunities, whereas equity involves giving people what they need based on their unique circumstances. The speaker emphasizes that the need for equity exists because society is inherently inequitable.

Why does the speaker believe it is important to discuss why certain needs exist in society?

The speaker argues that without understanding why inequities exist, efforts to address them fall short. These needs exist because we live in a system of oppression, where privilege and marginalization are distributed based on identity.

What does the speaker mean by 'schools sucking the life out of kids'?

The speaker is questioning whether schools are enriching and uplifting students or if they are draining their spirit. They argue that schools should foster an environment that fills students with knowledge and excitement rather than depleting them.

What example does the speaker give regarding the inequities faced by Indigenous communities in Canada?

The speaker highlights the legacy of residential schools in Canada, which were designed to assimilate Indigenous children. Despite being in the past, the effects of these schools continue to impact Indigenous communities and society as a whole.

How does the speaker view bias and prejudice in individuals and society?

The speaker believes that everyone, even those who think they are unbiased, holds unconscious prejudices due to societal conditioning. These biases exist at both an individual and institutional level, affecting systems like education.

What is the speaker's dream for marginalized students in schools?

The speaker dreams of a school system where marginalized students, such as those with disabilities, LGBTQ students, and students from low-income families, can fully participate without stigma. They also envision a curriculum that reflects the diversity of students' identities and experiences.

What does the speaker suggest about traditional STEM activities, particularly in relation to the example of a balloon activity?

The speaker recounts a harmful experience where a Black child couldn't participate in a science activity due to her hairstyle. The example is used to highlight how some classroom activities, though seemingly harmless, can alienate and exclude certain students.

What is meant by 'the harm that caused harm' in classroom settings?

The phrase refers to the damage done when classroom activities, lessons, or policies unintentionally alienate or exclude certain students. The speaker emphasizes the importance of educators being aware of these harms and changing their practices to avoid them.

Why does the speaker emphasize the need for 'critical consciousness' in educators?

The speaker believes that educators must develop critical consciousness, the ability to perceive and challenge social, economic, and political oppression, to effectively teach students. Without this awareness, teachers cannot help students build their own understanding of oppression and equity.

How does the speaker address the common misconception that schools are neutral and fair places?

The speaker challenges the belief that schools are naturally fair, pointing out that schools exist within an inequitable society. As a result, schools often perpetuate the same systems of oppression found in society at large, and this must be acknowledged to create truly equitable environments.