To review the possible influence of common dimensions of inequality on our expectations of students
Aim
To review the possible influence of common dimensions of inequality on our expectations of students.
Evidence and reflection
Think of yourself, a relatively‑high‑attaining and a relatively‑low‑attaining student in your class. Taking each applicable dimension in turn, think of how you and the students are affected by it, and make some brief notes.
Yourself A high‑attaining student A low‑attaining student
Disability
Gender
Race
Social class
Age
Sexuality
Some cells will clearly have more significance than others, but try to relate each dimension to each person. Then think hard about the capabilities and the potential of each of the students. How are these enabled – or constrained – by the dimensions being considered?
Extension
Consider the implications of this activity. For instance, a very exciting and worthwhile thing to do is to identify and gradually build on the particular strengths and potential of students who may have been performing relatively poorly at school.
