Institutional hierarchies are systems that exist within educational institutions to divide students into different groups based on their abilities, interests, and needs. These hierarchies often lead to exclusive behavior among students, such as bullying, harassment, and discrimination. In this article, I will examine how these hierarchies can be broken down and what steps teachers can take to create a more inclusive environment for all students.
Institutional hierarchies in schools tend to reproduce exclusionary behavior through various mechanisms. One way is through labeling and categorizing students according to their academic performance, which can reinforce existing stereotypes and prejudices about certain groups of students.
Some students may be labeled as "smart" while others are seen as "not smart," leading to a sense of superiority and inferiority among them. This creates an unhealthy competition between students, making it difficult for those who do not fit into the categories to feel included and accepted. Teachers can work against this by challenging these labels and encouraging students to see themselves as individuals capable of learning regardless of their perceived abilities.
Another mechanism by which institutional hierarchies perpetuate exclusionary behavior is through grouping students based on their behavior or social status. Some students may be grouped together based on their level of engagement with schoolwork, resulting in a hierarchy where those at the top receive more attention and resources than those at the bottom. This can lead to resentment and jealousy among students, further contributing to feelings of exclusion. To address this, teachers should ensure that all students have equal opportunities to participate in classroom activities and that their contributions are valued equally.
Institutional hierarchies often result in favoritism towards certain students, whether it's due to family connections, race, or socioeconomic status. This can create an environment where some students feel like they are constantly being watched and judged, making it difficult for them to express themselves fully. By acknowledging and addressing these biases, teachers can create a safer space for all students to share ideas without fear of judgment.
Teachers must be proactive in creating an inclusive environment in schools where all students feel safe and respected. By breaking down institutional hierarchies and promoting equality, teachers can foster a sense of community where everyone feels welcomed and appreciated.
By recognizing and addressing any prejudices within the educational system, teachers can help prevent exclusionary behaviors from happening in the first place.
How do institutional hierarchies within schools reproduce exclusionary behavior?
Institutional hierarchies within schools can reinforce exclusionary behaviors by creating power dynamics between teachers and students, administrators and staff members, and even among different groups of students. When these hierarchies are not challenged or disrupted, they can perpetuate an environment where certain individuals feel marginalized, unheard, and undervalued.