Advanced training and degrees are a goal of many First Generation students but they often need support in navigating requirements. The Cooperative Extension Service can support these youth as they transition into academic and workforce pathways. https://www.the74million.org/article/i-needed-help-students-spill-the-truth-about-college-experiences/ *Image created by Microsoft CoPilot
(From Inside Higher Education) T he rollout of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) has been, unequivocally, a mess. Inside Higher Ed has reported on every beat in the debacle , from the first signs of concern in 2022 to the lingering completion gap that threatens to undermine years of college-access progress. ... (link to rest of the article) . * Associated image was generated and vetted by the author using Microsoft CoPilot generative AI.
Many states have enacted legislation that directs how conversations about topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion can be approached in educational environments. This article explores the impact this has had on classroom teachers. How has your educational program in extension (or other organizations) been impacted by state legislation? https://www.brookings.edu/articles/7-takeaways-on-how-teachers-are-reacting-to-restrictions-on-discussing-race-and-gender/ *The attached image is...
An interesting and powerful visual presentation on the history of school segregation in the USA. https://hechingerreport.org/school-segregation-a-visual-timeline/ *Image shared is adapted from the website posting.
This article, focused on the surge in online education in tribal colleges, offers thoughtful discussion on how educators balance the convenience and accessibility with online access versus the social, cultural, and collaborative benefits of in-person education. https://hechingerreport.org/a-little-noticed-drawback-to-online-college-cultural-and-social-isolation/ *Accompanying image is from the referenced article. Photo caption is "Students Tim James, left, and Sky Johnson share a lunch table...
Despite some narrowing of the gender gap between men and women in academics, women continue to face significant obstacles such as bias. https://www.the74million.org/article/exclusive-over-80-of-women-leaders-in-education-experience-bias-survey-shows/ *Generative AI was used in preparation of the accompanying image using Microsoft CoPilot. The results generated by this tool were verified for suitability and use through the application of face validity.
Diverse learning environments continue to be shown to have a positive effect on all learners. This article shares a recent study that found that learners in STEM classrooms had better grades when sharing the educational space with minorities and first generation students. "This year has seen ample debate about the value and fairness of colleges prioritizing diversity among the students they serve. New research suggests one way to consider the question: by looking at how the mix of students...
A recent article (Link) from the opinion section of EdSurge discusses the importance of Black students having Black teachers. While written from the view of formal education, this discussion has great relevance for the Cooperative Extension Service as we examine whether or not our youth/adult clients, staff, and faculty are able to find "cultural mirrors" within our systems. What can Extension learn from the approach used in this article? What efforts are in place to mitigate bias in the...
From ChangeLab Solutions "Food should nourish our bodies, strengthen community connections, and provide a sustainable income for the millions of people working throughout the food chain. But much of the current food system in the United States runs counter to these values. Addressing how structural racism has shaped food systems and inequitable health outcomes is critical to reversing the health gaps experienced in BIPOC communities and communities with low income. "ChangeLab Solutions...
by Ana Lucia Fonseca In a rapidly evolving world, where diversity is celebrated, and inclusivity is championed, the role of extension programs has taken on a new level of significance. As a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) leader, I am excited to shed light on the crucial work to ensure that extension programs are at the forefront of fostering an inclusive environment that empowers individuals from all walks of life. Embracing Diversity: A Source of Strength The essence of extension...
Here is a new set of resources from ChangeLab Solutions that you may find useful. "In rural communities across the United States, increasing meaningful participation in the policymaking process for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC) while decreasing place, race, and class divides is essential to achieving prosperity. Adding to their suite of resources for increasing racial justice and equitable economic development in rural America, ChangeLab has released two new...