Introduction

The "degree awarding gap" in higher education generally refers to disparities in the attainment of degree classifications or grades among different demographic groups. These demographic groups may be defined by factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic background, or other characteristics.

The degree awarding gap highlights variations in the likelihood of students from different groups achieving higher degree classifications, such as first-class honours or upper-second-class honours. Disparities in academic outcomes can result from a range of factors, including variations in educational experiences, support systems, and institutional practices.

Efforts to address the degree awarding gap often involve examining and addressing systemic inequalities within educational institutions. This may include implementing inclusive teaching practices, providing additional support for students from underrepresented groups, and working to create an equitable learning environment.

Higher education is a dynamic field that constantly evolves to meet the diverse needs of students. As part of this evolution, educators and institutions are increasingly recognising the importance of disruptive pedagogy. Disruptive pedagogy challenges traditional teaching methods and fosters an inclusive, equitable, and empowering learning environment for all students, with a particular emphasis on benefiting students of colour and marginalised students.

What is Disruptive Pedagogy?

Disruptive pedagogy is an approach to teaching and learning that seeks to challenge and transform traditional educational practices. This approach has potential for fostering the values and behaviours that help prepare students build a more equitable society. It encourages instructors to rethink how they teach and how students learn, with a focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion. The key principles of disruptive pedagogy include:

• Student-Centered Learning: Prioritise students' voices, experiences, and identities in the learning process. Encourage active participation and co-creation of knowledge.

• Inclusivity: Create an environment that values diversity and promotes cultural responsiveness, making all students feel welcomed and respected.

• Critical Thinking: Promote critical inquiry, where students question assumptions, challenge the status quo, and engage in critical dialogue.

• Flexible Learning Environments: Incorporate various teaching modalities, including online and blended learning, to accommodate diverse learning styles and preferences.

• Empowerment: Empower students to take ownership of their learning journey, fostering self-efficacy and autonomy.

The Importance of Disruptive Pedagogy in Higher Education

Disruptive pedagogy is essential in higher education for several reasons, particularly for students of colour and marginalised students:

• Addressing Inequity: Disruptive pedagogy challenges existing systemic inequalities and biases, striving to level the educational playing field and can be achieved through campus-based projects and initiatives.

• Inclusive Learning: It promotes an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive, interact, and learn collaboratively. This can be achieved through how we design our curriculums, assessment and feedback processes and facilitate learning. 

• Improved Engagement: Engaging and relevant teaching methods can motivate students, increasing their participation and overall engagement. This can include experimental pedagogies and approaches to teaching and learning such as using Project- and Work-based Learning or rhizomatic learning approaches.

• Enhanced Critical Thinking: Encourages students to think critically, analyse various perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of complex issues within their curriculum context.

• Empowerment: Empowers students to become active learners, advocating for themselves and their educational needs through processes such as student representation and peer learning initiatives.

Recommendations to Improve Outcomes for Students of Colour and Marginalised Students 

To make disruptive pedagogy effective and beneficial for students of colour, consider implementing the following recommendations: 

• Culturally Responsive Curriculum: Develop a curriculum that reflects diverse perspectives and cultures, allowing students to connect with the subject matter on a personal level. 

• Faculty Training: Provide training for educators to raise awareness about bias, privilege, and inclusivity, enabling them to create equitable learning environments. 

• Diverse Faculty Representation: Promote diversity in hiring faculty members to serve as role models and mentors for underrepresented students. 

• Affinity Groups and Support Services: Create safe spaces, such as affinity groups, counselling, and support services, where students can find a sense of belonging and community. 

• Active Learning Techniques: Utilise active learning strategies that foster collaboration, problem-solving, and engagement, such as group projects, case studies, and flipped classrooms. 

• Assessment Redesign: Rethink assessment methods to ensure they are culturally fair and relevant to diverse student populations. 

• Open and Honest Dialogue: Encourage open conversations about race, ethnicity, and identity, promoting understanding and empathy among students. 

• Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship initiatives that pair Black and marginalised students with mentors who can provide guidance and support. 

• Resource Accessibility: Ensure access to necessary resources, including technology, textbooks, and financial aid, to remove barriers to success. 

• Feedback Loops: Implement feedback mechanisms to continuously assess the effectiveness of disruptive pedagogy, making necessary adjustments to better meet the needs that are culturally appropriate for students of colour. 

Conclusion

Disruptive pedagogy is a transformative approach that has the potential to improve outcomes for all students, with a particular focus on benefiting students of colour and marginalised individuals in higher education. By adopting these recommendations and fostering a culture of inclusivity and equity, institutions can create an environment that empowers students, promotes critical thinking, and prepares them for success in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

Edited by the Anti-Racism Working Group. If you have any questions pertaining to the editing or editor of this piece, please contact us at antiracismworkinggroup@gmail.com.