What is educational bias?

Educational bias refers to situations where one group of students experiences different treatment or expectations than another, often based on characteristics such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or ability. This differential treatment can manifest in various forms, including disciplinary actions, academic opportunities, and classroom participation. Recognizing educational bias is crucial because it can lead to systemic inequities in academic achievement and emotional well-being for affected students.

This understanding highlights why the focus is on the treatment of different groups within educational environments. Favoritism towards high-achieving students, disparities in access to technology, and assumptions based on student background can all contribute to or stem from educational bias, but the heart of the concept lies in the unequal treatment of diverse groups within the educational framework. Addressing educational bias is essential for fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students.