Case Studies on Diversity and Social Justice Education

by Paul C. Gorski, Seema G. Pothini

Case Studies on Diversity and Social Justice Education offers pre- and in-service educators an opportunity to analyze and reflect upon a variety of realistic case studies related to educational equity and social justice. The accessibly written cases allow educators to practice the process of considering a range of contextual factors, checking their own biases, and making immediate- and longer-term decisions about how to create and sustain equitable learning environments for all students. This revised edition adds ten new cases to offer greater coverage of elementary education, as well as topics such as body-shaming, Black Lives Matter, and transgender oppression. Existing cases have been updated to reflect new societal contexts, and streamlined for ease-of-use. The book begins with a seven-point process for examining case studies. Largely lacking from existing case study collections, this framework guides readers through the process of identifying, examining, reflecting on, and taking concrete steps to resolve challenges related to diversity and equity in schools. The cases themselves present everyday examples of the ways in which racism, sexism, homophobia and heterosexism, class inequities, language bias, religious-based oppression, and other equity and diversity concerns affect students, teachers, families, and other members of our school communities. They involve classroom issues that are relevant to all grade levels and content areas, allowing significant flexibility in how and with whom they are used. Although organized topically, the intersections of these issues are stressed throughout the cases, reflecting the complexities of real-life scenarios. All cases conclude with a series of questions to guide discussion and a section of facilitator notes, called ‘Points for Consideration.’ This unique feature provides valuable insight for understanding the complexities of each case.

Genres: Education, Teaching, Nonfiction, Social Justice, Professional Development, Grad School

152 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like my eyes were opened to the injustices in schools that typically fly under the radar. While they can often be hard to see and even harder to fix, this book inspired me to take a good look at my school and take steps to make it a more equitable place.

[Leah DiVincenzo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Analyzing cases through the equity literacy framework can help educators think through their own biases and consider the best ways to address inequities and bias in the classroom. I especially appreciate the points for consideration in the appendix, giving readers specific equity foci to consider for each case study.

[Alicia Tapia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource for exploring the nuances of different equity issues in schools.

[D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent collection of short scenarios dealing with issues of diversity, equity, and issues that arise in school settings. Each case is given a context and realistic particulars, and it encourages readers to think through the complexities and nuances of each scenario. There are some guiding questions and things to consider offered, which makes this a particularly valuable book for people all along the spectrum of educators, from people with many years experience to those just starting out.

[Jon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent collection of short case studies that reflect common realities in schools, which could be used during courses or PLCs. The questions for reflection and points for consideration are helpful. However, I feel like individuals wishing to use these cases would need first to explore the bigger concepts of equity and anti-racism, such as through Gorsky’s equity literacy framework and other readings, in order to understand the cases most meaningfully.

[Matt Sautman · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a resource, Case Studies on Diversity and Social Justice Educations provides an excellent series of scenarios that help readers think through a variety of situations where inequity manifests in educational contexts. In isolation, this book may not be transformational, but those with experience in equity and/or critical race studies will find these scenarios useful for anyone wishing to create more equitable spaces in their institutions.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for a professional development course. I found some food for thought, although I thought some of the scenarios were a little over the top. Communication is key to solving slights and unfair treatment.

[Jenna Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

had to read this book for a class and really enjoyed it. quick read with really interesting scenarios we face as educators. pushes you to think about how you approach current issues

[Mandy Bellm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful and practical. Helps immensely with understanding micro-aggression and how educators can unintentionally marginalize minorities.

[Jamie Miles · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for educators

[Nathalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT text to spark discussion about diversity and equity in the classroom!

[Liz Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't a book to tell you the one way to address thorny issues we all face as educators. The book is made up of 'case studies', very short stories that detail particular events, interactions and relationships, that fit into categories such as socioeconomic status, religion, and (dis)ability. On reading these case studies it is easy to relate to many of the actions taken. Hindsight is 20/20 and no matter how much we try to work with students in as equitable a fashion as possible, we all make errors. Reading and reflecting on these cases studies helps us down the path of social justice and equity and there are no 'right' answers. After the case studies are presented, guiding questions are given, and then at the end of the book, Points for Consideration are given.
This is an excellent resource for teacher educators and I would love to sit in on classes that use this book, to hear the discussions that ensue. Teachers and educators are only human, and we err as humans, and we act as humans, with all the flaws and potential there within.

[Jill Madsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book by an amazing educator and activist!!! Can't wait to use this text this summer in my Education and Cultural Diversity course!