While inequality refers to differences between groups, inequity refers to unnecessary and avoidable differences that are unfair or unjust. Not all inequalities are unjust, but all inequities stem from unjust inequalities. Societal impacts of failing to remedy inequities and inequalities include feelings of helplessness, disenfranchisement, lack of concern for the disadvantaged, resentment towards systems, lack of global competitiveness, exploitation, and apathy. Litigation is in progress regarding state funding equity lawsuits.

1. Inequality and inequity Dr. Scott McLeod September 19, 2006

2. Question If you were to perform in the circus, what would you do?

3. Housekeeping Attendance Note discussion group / location Syllabus Textbook Electronic assignments

4. Definitions and prior knowledge What is the difference between these terms? Inequality is… Inequity is…

5. Definitions While inequality implies differences between individuals or population groups, inequity refers to differences which are unnecessary and avoidable but, in addition, are also considered unfair and unjust. Not all inequalities are unjust, but all inequities are the product of unjust inequalities. http://www.paho.org/english/sha/be991ineq.htm

6. Prior knowledge What do we already know about inequality and inequity in education?

7. Root causes What are our beliefs about the root causes behind existing inequalities and/or inequities?

8. Societal impacts What are the societal impacts of failing to remedy existing inequities and/or inequalities? Rich keep getting richer We think it’s the way it’s supposed to be – comfort with the status quo

9. Societal impacts Inability of people to become upwardly mobile Feelings of helplessness by individuals and/or groups Those left behind become burden on society Systematic alienation / disenfranchisement Lack of concern that disadvantaged are increasingly becoming more so

10. Societal impacts Feelings of resentment lead to lack of support for education system Lack of global competitiveness b/c not tapping into full potential of citizens Exploitation of underserved Apathy of those left behind Inability to check consolidations of power

11. Are these equally concerning? In 2004, only 1% of American Indian students took the SAT, compared to 63% of white students, 12% of black students, and 10% of Asian students. In 2002, American Indian students made up 1% of students in degree-granting institutions, compared with 70% white students, 12% black students, 10% Hispanic students, and 7% Asian students. Chronicle of Higher Education, p. A41, September 15, 2006

12. State funding equity lawsuits Litigation in progress

13. Review and questions Technology review What kind of questions do you have?