Introduction: Embarking on "From Equity Talk to Equity Walk" was a journey ignited by a recommendation from a DEI expert. I am profoundly grateful for having picked up this insightful book. Despite its concise nature, it serves as a powerful reminder of the gaps in our understanding and the importance of adopting a learner’s mindset in the complex work of equity. Synopsis: This book traverses the challenging landscape of educational equity, addressing the deep-rooted injustices through systematic marginalization based on race, ethnicity, and history. It advocates for a clear articulation of equity, underpinned by the necessity to understand and correct educational injustices. Through principles of equity by design, it calls for a paradigm shift in practices and policies to not only recognize but accommodate the diverse contexts of student learning. This work stresses the importance of ongoing learning, data disaggregation, and critical questioning to foster a truly equitable educational environment. Strengths: The book’s brevity, surprisingly, does not detract from its impact. Instead, it makes for an accessible, digestible read, achievable within a week. Its straightforward language and approachable format are designed to comfort the discomforted, challenging faculty and staff to confront hard realities without stigmatizing first-generation equity practitioners. Through practical examples, like the impactful case study from the Community College of Aurora, the authors highlight the transformative power of disaggregating data, making the case for equity-minded practices in tangible, relatable ways. Opportunities: Despite its strengths, the book may not bridge the gap to those yet unconvinced of the value of equity work, speaking more to those already engaged in the conversation. It primarily addresses faculty, leaving a gap for administrators seeking to champion equity from their positions. While rich in actionable insights, a deeper dive into the 'why' of equity work could broaden its appeal and impact, offering more comprehensive guidance for implementing these critical practices across the spectrum of higher education roles. Conclusion: "From Equity Talk to Equity Walk" is an important read for anyone within the higher education sphere committed to understanding and advancing educational equity. While I rated it 4 out of 5 for its concise yet impactful contribution, I longed for further exploration into administrative roles in equity work. Nevertheless, it has been a grounding read, one that I've already recommended to colleagues, underscoring its immediate value and relevance in today's educational landscape. #EquityInEducation #FromEquityTalkToEquityWalk #HigherEdEquity #TheClarkCommunique
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AuthorDr. Jess Clark is a trained historian and higher education leader passionate about leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance learning experiences. A lifelong learner and servant leader, she empowers educators in the digital age. Through her blog, she shares expertise on educational leadership, curriculum development, and integrating technology in higher education, inspiring administrators and educators. Dr. Clark's commitment to embracing emerging technologies like AI reflects her belief in technology's transformative power in shaping the future of education. Archives
April 2024
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