Justice, Grace, and Identity in Education
Readings
Mathematics for Human Flourishing - chapter on Justice by Francis Su (in Canvas or through Library)
Activities
Definitions
What do the terms in the lesson title mean to you as an LA?
"Justice" is a multifaceted concept encompassing fairness, equity, and the application of moral and legal principles to ensure that individuals receive their due rights and treatment. In the context of university learning assistants, justice involves providing equitable opportunities, fair evaluation, and impartial support to students. It entails upholding academic integrity, fostering an inclusive learning environment, and ensuring that all individuals have equal access to educational resources and opportunities. Ultimately, justice in the academic setting strives to create an environment where every student is treated fairly, their rights are respected, and they have the chance to succeed based on their merit and effort. (ChatGPT)
"Grace" in the context of university learning assistants can be defined as the compassionate and understanding demeanor exhibited by those in positions of academic support. It involves showing kindness, patience, and flexibility when interacting with students, acknowledging that everyone has unique challenges and learning styles. Grace also implies offering forgiveness and second chances when students encounter difficulties, allowing them the opportunity to learn and grow from their experiences. University learning assistants demonstrating grace understand the complexities of the learning process and strive to create a supportive environment that encourages personal and academic development while recognizing the humanity and individuality of each student. (ChatGPT)
"Identity" in the context of university learning assistants refers to the multifaceted and evolving sense of self that students bring to their academic pursuits. It encompasses various aspects such as cultural background, personal beliefs, academic interests, and social affiliations. Understanding student identity involves recognizing and respecting diversity, including differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and more.
University learning assistants should acknowledge that each student's identity influences their learning experiences and may impact how they engage with academic content. Fostering an inclusive environment involves respecting and valuing diverse identities, creating spaces where students feel seen and heard, and promoting a sense of belonging within the academic community. Recognizing and embracing the richness of student identities contributes to a more supportive and enriching learning environment. (ChatGPT)
Mathematics for Human Flourishing - chapter on Justice by Francis Su recap
What stood out to you?
"be quick to listen, slow to speak, and quick to forgive each other"
Grades are a measure of progress, but not a measure of promise.
[William Tate] advocates that teachers take a “centric” perspective: allowing and expecting students to center their problem solving in terms of their own cultural and community experiences, and encouraging students to think about how the same problem might be viewed from the perspectives of different members of the class, school, and society.
Seeking justice builds in us a willingness to challenge the status quo. Many injustices are deeply embedded in the way institutions operate, whether that be school or workplace or home.
Think of a time you felt excluded from a group or activity. Did anyone do anything to help you feel more welcome? If so, what?
Radical Grace
From Radical Grace - Essays and Conversations on Teaching
What does "radical grace" mean to you?
Trust students
See them as whole people
"Radical grace" for a learning assistant implies an approach that goes beyond conventional expectations of kindness and understanding. It involves an exceptional level of compassion, flexibility, and forgiveness in supporting students. In the context of learning assistance, radical grace might include:
Unconditional Support: Offering unwavering support to students, regardless of their academic struggles or mistakes. This involves recognizing that everyone has unique challenges and providing assistance without judgment.
Individualized Understanding: Recognizing and respecting the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and identities of students. Tailoring assistance to meet the specific needs of each student and understanding how their identity might influence their learning journey.
Empathy and Patience: Demonstrating a deep understanding of the challenges students face and maintaining patience during their academic journey. Acknowledging that learning is a process, and setbacks are opportunities for growth.
Flexible Approaches: Being open to alternative learning styles and approaches, acknowledging that each student may have different methods of understanding and mastering academic content.
Forgiveness and Second Chances: Providing opportunities for redemption and growth after academic setbacks. Recognizing that students may make mistakes and allowing them to learn from those experiences without undue punishment.
Promoting Well-being: Prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of students. Understanding that external factors may impact academic performance, and offering support and resources to help students navigate challenges.
Advocacy for Equity: Actively working to create an equitable learning environment, advocating for policies and practices that address systemic issues and ensure fair opportunities for all students.
In essence, radical grace for a learning assistant involves a transformative and deeply compassionate approach that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of academic support, aiming to create an atmosphere where students not only succeed academically but also feel valued, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Flourishing
"Flourishing" in the context of university learning assistants refers to the holistic and thriving development of students in various aspects of their lives. It encompasses not only academic success but also personal growth, well-being, and the realization of one's full potential. For learning assistants, fostering flourishing involves creating an environment that goes beyond traditional academic support and includes:
Academic Success: Encouraging and facilitating students' intellectual growth, helping them achieve their academic goals, and fostering a love for learning.
Personal Development: Supporting the development of skills, values, and qualities that contribute to students' overall personal growth, including critical thinking, communication, resilience, and ethical reasoning.
Emotional Well-being: Prioritizing students' mental health and emotional well-being by creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Recognizing and addressing the emotional challenges that may arise during the learning process.
Social Engagement: Encouraging students to connect with peers, faculty, and the broader academic community. Promoting a sense of belonging and community that enhances the overall university experience.
Cultural and Identity Affirmation: Acknowledging and respecting the diversity of student identities and backgrounds. Creating an inclusive environment that affirms and celebrates various cultural perspectives.
Life Skills and Preparation: Providing practical guidance and resources to help students navigate challenges beyond the academic realm, preparing them for future career opportunities and lifelong learning.
Purpose and Meaning: Helping students discover their passions, interests, and sense of purpose. Encouraging them to find meaning in their academic pursuits and connecting their learning to broader life goals.
In essence, flourishing for university learning assistants involves a comprehensive approach that nurtures the intellectual, emotional, and social dimensions of students' lives. It aims to empower students to not only succeed academically but also to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives during and beyond their university experience.
Action Items
Make a specific plan to demonstrate grace with your students next week.
Make a specific plan to demonstrate grace with yourself next week.
Make a specific plan to help your students flourish next week.
Make a specific plan to help you flourish next week.
Links and Resources
Intersectionality of Identities