Monday, October 12, 2009

Unconscious Bias?

I came across this article last year in Phi Delta Kappan, an educational journal that I get monthly. The article discusses the notion that many of us--even the well intentioned--have unconscious biases. Check it out:

http://www.pdkintl.org/kappan/k_v90/k0901mou.htm

It's a worthwhile read, if only to spark self-reflection. After you read it, be sure to let me know if you'd like to discuss it either in class or online. I originally chose not to assign it as an "official" blog response article because of the sensitive nature of the subject matter; I wasn't sure that I should ask you to discuss this in a semi-public forum (online). While we've established quite a safe community in class and I applaud your willingness to discuss ideas candidly, I just wasn't certain that it would be a good idea to give anyone the opportunity to read such personal thoughts on these loaded issues "out of context." Let me know what you think...
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8 comments:

  1. Lynn Rosch-BrancatoOctober 12, 2009 at 3:35 PM

    Responding to this article would take 5000 words. I the decision is between official blog post, unofficial blog post or classroom discussion, I would vote for classroom discussion.

    Lynn Rosch-Brancato

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  2. cptOctober 13, 2009 at 6:11 AM

    I think we are doing a great job with positive class discussions, my vote is with Lynn!

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  3. Ms. TallonOctober 13, 2009 at 8:13 PM

    Interesting article, I'm sure people have lots to say about it. I think class discussion would be best as well.

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  4. TrinityOctober 13, 2009 at 9:16 PM

    I really like this article. It made me think and feel a little ashamed of myself. I have no problem discussing this through any medium, but a class discussion sounds like a good idea.

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  5. AnonymousOctober 15, 2009 at 6:24 PM

    I think classroom discussion is the only way to go. Having give and take on this will help draw out different opinions.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Meredith C.October 15, 2009 at 8:20 PM

    Class discussion is cool. I took the sample test re: church and state, but didn't know how to find the other subjects, like race etc. Anyone else take the survey?

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  7. KCicconeOctober 16, 2009 at 12:11 AM

    I am all for class discussion, however am I late on posting my opinion?

    ReplyDelete
  8. AnonymousOctober 17, 2009 at 4:29 PM

    I think a classroom discussion would be best. I enjoy our classroom discussions and hearing everyone's different opnions.

    ReplyDelete

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