Nonacademic Challenges And Stereotypes

Firstly, the authors introduce the theme of the article—social context. Social context refers to, “patterns of human relationships and intersections that characterize social life.” (Hall et al., 2014, p. 100) For example, the economic class of a student directly impacts them. Furthermore, kids with higher social class receive a better education. In contrast, students with a lower social class receive poorer education and the opportunities for them to improve are significantly low. Throughout the text, the authors instruct the reader about the social issues challenging educators, and illustrates the relationship between curriculum and teachers, communities, and politics. Finally, the authors shed light on nonacademic challenges faced by students.

For example, the authors discuss economic status and stereotypes. Additionally, the authors illustrate the relationship between social context, academic performance, and deficit ideology. Furthermore, the authors present the real consequences of nonacademic problems, such as dropping out and going to prison. The authors clearly defined what social context is and presented the relationship it has to other major issues in a very organized and flowing manner.

4. What are the weaknesses of the author’s argument? For example, do you see any unstated assumptions or biases in the article? Is this a limitation to the author’s credibility? Why or why not?

The only weakness in this article is the lack of explanation of how social class is an example of social context. The authors do provide some information but I think they should have focused more on this example. In today’s society, wealth impacts almost everything. Students with wealthier parents receive better education and more opportunities. With the growing gap between the rich and poor, more and more students are facing the barriers of not receiving a proper education. Wealth mandates the quality of life; therefore, the authors should have shed more light on this major issue.

5. How does this article impact your journey as an educator? How will you use this information to influence your classroom