EDUC 7851 - Foundations of Inequity

A learner’s first language influences the quality of education to which the learner has access. This language carries with it varying degrees of power relative to the perceived dominate culture and may restrict or enhance the learner’s access to an equitable educational system. Policies and practices in education have thus far, been designed around a single, dominant language. However, globalization and the changing demographics internationally, demand a broader understanding of language, and by extension, cultural deficiencies. This course will examine two overarching questions. The first, what are the relationships among language, power, identity, alterity, and education, and how do these relationships influence the learner’s quality of life and access to education? The second, “If educators understand the relationships among language, power, and identity, will that understanding alone mitigate inequities in education?”

Hours:
3