Status imbalances in student groups can affect participation and learning, with higher-status students often dominating discussions. By recognizing and addressing these imbalances, teachers can create a more inclusive classroom, encouraging all students to engage, share their reasoning, and take academic risks.
Raised in a Caribbean household, I perceived “What are you doing?” as judgment. This carried over to teaching, where I overemphasized correctness. Now, in professional development, I focus on fostering a broader view of “doing” in math and science, encouraging exploration and curiosity in students.
Rosiane Lesperance’s Edutopia article, published on January 5, 2024, explores connecting science education to social issues in high school.