Equity and Inclusion in Math & Science Classrooms

Posted by on November 25, 2005

[posted from Public Education Network newsblast]

EQUITY & INCLUSION IN MATH & SCIENCE CLASSROOMS

Ensuring equity and excellence lies at the core of systemic reform efforts, especially in science and mathematics, the two academic areas that historically have not been widely open to females, ethnic minorities, or students from less affluent communities and families. Although the concept of equity penetrates the entire education system, it has profound implications in teaching and learning mathematics and science. A new article by Arlene Hambrick draws attention to the concept of education equity and its potential to increase excellence in mathematics and science for a diverse population of students. Raising expectations for student learning is first on the list of key practical recommendations to help schools ensure equitable instruction to meet a wide range of student needs. This article also provides a focused look at equity issues in mathematics and science as they apply to subgroups identified in the No Child Left Behind Act.

http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/content/cntareas/math/ma800.htm