3 Barriers to Learning
Barriers to Learning
- Gender Bias
- Stereotype threat
- Microaggressions
- Misconceptions about learning
In this lesson we will explore the negative impact of gender bias, stereotype threat, and microaggressions on learning.
Gender Bias
Please read this Scientific American blog post on gender bias
Stereotype Threat
- How Stereotypes Affect Your Test Scores: How Stereotypes Affect Your Test Scores
- Listen to this podcast on stereotype threat. The podcast can be accessed via Apple, Android, and Google Play. For more on stereotype threat, see Claude Steele’s Whistling Vivaldi.
Microaggressions
View the video below to understand what microaggressions are and what they might look like in your class.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ZahtlxW2CIQ%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26rel%3D0
Resources
- Report a bias-based incident: https://studentaffairs.indiana.edu/index.shtml
Misconceptions about Learning
Misconception 1: Learning Styles
Many students like the idea that they have a particular learning style. However, research has found this to be a fallacy. Tesia Marshik discusses the myth of learning styles and debunks the notion that we must teach to students’ preferred style in order for them to learn.
Misconception 2: Your brain cannot be changed
New research indicates that we really can rewire our brain. To learn more, review this infographic about neuroplasticity.
Misconception 3:
CONTENT -Learning vs. Performance
Learning vs Performance: Soderstrom_bjork_2015_learn_v_perform.pdf
Reflection Exercise
- Explain how you can remove a barrier to your peers’ learning.