Give three examples of oppressive practices in the classroom and explai how each example is linked to the face of oppression
1. Tracking: Tracking is a practice in which students are placed in different academic tracks or streams based on perceived ability levels. This can lead to segregation and perpetuate inequalities, as students in lower tracks may not receive the same resources or opportunities as those in higher tracks. This is linked to the face of oppression as it can result in marginalized students being held back from achieving their full potential, based on stereotypes and prejudices about their abilities.
2. Biased discipline practices: Research has shown that students of color are more likely to be disciplined and punished harshly compared to their white counterparts for similar infractions. This discriminatory practice can result in the criminalization of young individuals of color and perpetuate the school-to-prison pipeline. This is linked to the face of oppression as it disproportionately impacts marginalized groups and reinforces systemic inequalities in education and society.
3. Culturally irrelevant curriculum: When students are only exposed to curriculum and resources that reflect the dominant culture, their own cultures and backgrounds are marginalized and deemed inferior. This lack of representation and validation can result in students feeling disconnected from their education and devalued. This is linked to the face of oppression as it perpetuates cultural hegemony and reinforces power dynamics that prioritize the dominant culture over others.