Addressing Stereotypes in Education

Unlearning bias is not just a one-time workshop—it's a continuous journey that every educator must embark on. It requires humility, reflection, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and our practices. I’ve witnessed educators who, upon recognizing their own biases, took proactive steps to educate themselves and change their behaviors. ➡️ One teacher shared how she realized her disciplinary actions often disproportionately affected students of color. Instead of dismissing this feedback, she sought training on restorative practices and engaged in difficult conversations with her colleagues. This journey didn’t just alter her approach; it inspired her entire school community to foster a more inclusive environment. ➡️ Another educator recounted how his own experiences growing up shaped his perceptions. By actively seeking diverse voices—through literature, training, and discussions—he began to dismantle long-held assumptions. He not only transformed his teaching methods but also empowered his students to challenge stereotypes and advocate for their own needs. 👉🏾 Unlearning bias is essential for creating a more equitable school environment. When educators commit to this journey, they pave the way for meaningful change. They create classrooms where all students feel seen, heard, and valued, ultimately leading to improved academic and social outcomes. What steps have you taken to unlearn bias, and how have they impacted your approach to teaching? Share your stories! #schoolleaders #edleadership #whenbrowngirlslead

Paper cuts? 🩸Ouch You have heard me talk about paper cuts of microaggression before, the little little comments or actions that cuts just enough and never really heal before the next cut. Some of you asked, Koon, how can we be better leaders at minimising the papercuts? Lets start with the papercuts from stereotypes, so damaging in limiting a person's potential to be their best self. Here are some 5 steps 💠 research, research. It’s at your fingertips literally to know the stereotypes. 💠 when you hear a comment, ask yourself if it is just a generalization or stereotype. 💠 If so, ASK the person who said it to explain their point of view 👉What do you mean when you say ....? This is a good technique ⚠️to bring awareness with kindness. 💠 If they are not aware that they are using stereotypes, then explain politely that their comment is a stereotype, why it is wrong and the impact it has on others. 💠 Importantly exercise judgement if the above should be done publicly or privately. It’s not about shaming but constructively move forward. Conversation on stereotypes can be a difficult. Defensiveness is expected. And if you believe leadership is about empowering the people you lead to be their best self then know that every time you heal the papercuts of stereotypes with care and compassion, you cast a wider leadership shadow for many more to thrive. Because ❌One in seven people living in Australia are against the concept of multiculturalism ❌Three in ten people do not believe that immigrants make Australia stronger ❌one in three believe there are some cultural groups that do not belong in Australia Koon Executive Coach #careerhackwithkoon ***** DM me 👉1:1 coaching 👉Own Your Voice with #SoundWave Training Program 👉Keynote speaker/panelist Source: Scanlon Institute, Monash Uni, Western Sydney Uni, All Together Now Photo credit: The Australian with the call for action from CEO of Asialink Martine Letts.

About a year ago, I entered a prompt into ChatGPT and received a certain response. Out of curiosity, I tried it again but added a few simple words: “I'm a [X]-year-old Black woman.” Can you imagine how the response changed? AI is reshaping education, opening doors for personalized learning—but there's a challenge we can’t overlook: AI bias often reinforces stereotypes, impacting students from diverse backgrounds in ways that affect their confidence and sense of belonging. Stanford HAI's recent research led by Faye-Marie Vassel sheds light on these issues, showing how language models often portray marginalized students in limited, stereotypical roles. This isn’t just a tech issue; it’s a social one that influences how students see themselves and their potential. How can we address this? Vassel's work points to a solution: building AI tools that are culturally responsive and designed with intersectionality in mind. When we prioritize equity in AI, we create educational tools that reflect the real diversity of learners. Read more about this vital research and its implications for the future of AI in education: https://lnkd.in/ecYHXK-E Also check out the newest episode of the AI for Kids podcast here: https://lnkd.in/eWyTyHfH