Researchers have found that there is a significant difference in academic performance between minority and majority students who attend schools with either an inclusive or an exclusive curriculum. Inclusive curricula tend to focus on the history, culture, experiences, and contributions of all groups in society, including people from diverse backgrounds such as race, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability status, etc. On the other hand, exclusive curricula often present a narrow viewpoint that excludes these perspectives.
When minority students are exposed to an inclusive curriculum, they feel more valued, respected, and represented in their educational environment. They develop a sense of belonging, which leads to increased self-esteem and motivation for learning. This can also result in higher academic achievement and improved psychological outcomes.
One study found that African American students who attended high schools with inclusive curricula had significantly higher GPAs than those who attended schools with exclusive curricula.
When minority students are exposed to an exclusive curriculum, they may experience feelings of marginalization, alienation, and underrepresentation. They may feel that their identities and experiences are not being recognized or validated, which can lead to lower self-esteem, reduced confidence, and decreased engagement in school. As a result, they may perform poorly academically and suffer negative psychological outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and stress. One study found that Latino/a students who attended schools with exclusively Eurocentric curricula were more likely to have symptoms of depression than those who attended inclusive schools.
The choice between inclusive versus exclusive curricula has important implications for the psychological outcomes of minority students. Inclusive curricula can promote a positive sense of identity, belonging, and success, while exclusive curricula can contribute to negative psychological outcomes. Educators should consider the impact of their curriculum choices on all students, including those from diverse backgrounds, to ensure that every child feels valued, included, and empowered to reach their full potential.
What are the psychological outcomes of inclusive versus exclusive curricula on minority students?
The implementation of inclusive curricula can have positive psychological outcomes for minority students, as they feel more represented, valued, and included within their educational environment. This can lead to increased self-esteem, motivation, and engagement with schooling, which may translate into higher academic achievement.