In the contemporary educational landscape, the concept of social determinants of learning (SDoL) is gaining significant attention. Determinants such as social and systemic influences, often outside the conventional scope of educators and institutions, can severely impact learning.
Fostering equitable and welcoming learning atmospheres stands as a primary objective for educators. To achieve this, curriculum leaders must consider factors affecting students’ ability to learn. It is important to note and account for the impact of SDoL outside the control of learners, teachers and schools.
Educational experts writing in an American Educational Research Association (AERA) article say such determinants are essential in shaping educational outcomes. By considering SDoL, curriculum professionals can create more equitable learning environments that support all students, regardless of socioeconomic background. This approach not only helps to bridge the gap in educational opportunities but also ensures that every student has a fair chance to succeed.
Socioeconomic status (SES) is a particularly influential factor among the social determinants of learning. Experts agree that curriculum professionals, such as graduates of the University of Southern Indiana (USI) online Master of Science in Education (MSE) with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) program, must take SES and other SDoL into account when designing learning materials to ensure equity in education.
The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Learning
Socioeconomic status encompasses various factors, including family income, parental education levels and occupational status, collectively shaping a child’s learning environment and opportunities. Research consistently shows that students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face numerous challenges that can impede their academic success, but pinpointing the most influential ones can be challenging.
An Instructure article on the socioeconomic factors affecting student success says the top four socioeconomic factors impacting student success and engagement are psychological well-being and access to the internet, learning resources and technology. The chronic stress associated with these factors can lead to difficulties in concentration, memory retention and overall academic performance.
Closing the Socioeconomic Gap
Educational experts agree that students’ socioeconomic status strongly influences their learning outcomes. While poor performance in school isn’t solely due to socioeconomic disadvantage, an international review of education policies claims many schools worldwide perpetuate existing socioeconomic disparities. Instead of promoting a fairer distribution of learning opportunities and outcomes, these schools often reinforce inequality.
In areas where school performance varies widely due to socioeconomic status, experts recommend targeting socioeconomically disadvantaged schools. Effective strategies include supporting school leaders, attracting and retaining effective teachers, and encouraging parental and community involvement.
Equity in Education: A Central Tenet in Curriculum Design
According to a recent article on the intersection of SES, cognition and academic performance, growing up in a disadvantaged background can negatively impact a person’s education. While it remains unclear why some students are more resilient than others, research indicates that both SES and cognitive ability are strongly linked to academic performance, underscoring the importance of educational equity.
Achieving equity involves recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of students to ensure every learner has the support and resources necessary to reach their full potential. There are several ways to consider SDoL in curriculum design to promote educational equity, including the following:
- Differentiated instruction: By acknowledging and understanding students’ diverse backgrounds, curriculum professionals can create materials that cater to varying levels of prior knowledge and learning styles.
- Inclusive content: A curriculum that reflects the experiences and cultures of all students fosters a sense of belonging and relevance.
- Supportive environments: Supportive learning environments include providing additional resources, such as tutoring, counseling and after-school programs, to bridge the gap caused by SES disparities.
Incorporating SDoL in the Curriculum
Integrating SdoL, like SES, into curriculum design is crucial for achieving equity in education. Accounting for SDoL ensures that all students, regardless of their background, have access to the necessary resources and support. This approach helps to bridge the gap in educational opportunities and outcomes, fostering a more inclusive and fair learning environment for everyone. For educators seeking to make an impact within schools, USI’s online MSE – C&I program enables graduates to engage these ideas as curriculum professionals.
By acknowledging and addressing the diverse needs of students, curriculum professionals can create inclusive and supportive learning environments that allow all students to succeed. Equity in education is about providing not only equal access but also the necessary support and resources for every student to reach their full potential. By prioritizing the impact of SDoL, educators can work towards a more just and equitable educational system for all.
Learn more about USI’s online Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction program.
