Doing Equity and Diversity for Success in Higher Education: Redressing Structural Inequalities in the Academy

This book explores the forensic and collective examination of pre-existing understandings of structural inequalities in Higher Education Institutions, highlighting the dynamic interplay between historical events, discourse, and racialized acts of violence. It calls for a redistribution of power across intersectional and racial lines to decenter whiteness and redress structural inequalities in the academy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 19 June 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into a forensic and collective exploration of pre-existing notions regarding structural inequalities within Higher Education Institutions. It goes beyond the current understanding of causal factors that perpetuate inequality and sheds light on the intricate interplay between historical events, discourse, and more sophisticated and racialized acts of violence. By doing so, the book crystallizes a multitude of contemporary manifestations of structural racism in higher education. In the face of a surge in racialized violence, civil unrest, and barriers to attainment, progression, and success for students and staff of color, the pursuit of equity and diversity for success in higher education has become both politically urgent and morally imperative. This book advocates for a redistribution of power across intersectional and racial lines as a means of decentering whiteness and addressing structural inequalities within the academy. It is an essential read for scholars of sociology and education, as well as those who are interested in equality and social justice.

Introduction:
The study of structural inequalities in higher education has gained increasing attention in recent years, as the impact of these inequalities on students' academic outcomes, social mobility, and overall well-being has become more apparent. This book aims to provide a comprehensive and critical examination of pre-existing understandings of structural inequalities in higher education, and to explore the ways in which these inequalities are perpetuated and challenged.

Chapter 1:
In the first chapter, the editors provide an overview of the current state of research on structural inequalities in higher education. They highlight the various causal factors that contribute to these inequalities, including historical legacies, institutional practices, and societal norms. They also discuss the challenges that researchers face in studying these inequalities, such as the lack of data and the complexities of measuring and interpreting outcomes.

Chapter 2:
In the second chapter, the editors introduce the concept of intersectionality, which is used to understand the complex interplay of multiple social identities and their impact on individuals' experiences and outcomes. They argue that structural inequalities in higher education are not solely driven by individual factors but are also shaped by broader social and economic structures. They provide examples of how intersectionality can be used to analyze and understand structural inequalities in higher education.

Chapter 3:
In the third chapter, the editors explore the role of discourse in perpetuating structural inequalities in higher education. They argue that dominant discourses about race, gender, and class shape how individuals perceive themselves and others, and how institutions respond to these perceptions. They provide examples of how discourse can be used to challenge and transform dominant narratives and promote equity and diversity.

Chapter 4:
In the fourth chapter, the editors examine the historical legacies of structural inequalities in higher education. They argue that historical events such as slavery, colonization, and segregation have created enduring patterns of inequality that continue to impact students and staff of color today. They provide examples of how historical legacies can be addressed through education and policy reform.

Chapter 5:
In the fifth chapter, the editors discuss the impact of racialized violence and civil unrest on structural inequalities in higher education. They argue that these events create a sense of fear and insecurity among students and staff of color, which can lead to barriers to attainment, progression, and success. They provide examples of how institutions can respond to these events and promote equity and diversity.

Chapter 6:
In the sixth chapter, the editors explore the role of policy and institutional practices in perpetuating structural inequalities in higher education. They argue that policies such as affirmative action, diversity initiatives, and campus climate policies can have a positive impact on promoting equity and diversity, but that these policies must be implemented effectively and with a commitment to social justice.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the study of structural inequalities in higher education. It offers a comprehensive and critical examination of pre-existing understandings of these inequalities, and provides insights into the ways in which these inequalities are perpetuated and challenged. By advocating for a redistribution of power across intersectional and racial lines, the book calls for a more equitable and inclusive higher education system that promotes the success of all students and staff.

Weight: 644g
Dimension: 155 x 218 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030656676
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021