Today’s educational landscape is full of many positive exploits and many challenges as well. For years, the American educational system has attempted to find ways to create informed students and citizens.
Students today have unlimited access to information, use learning management systems (LMS) to complete homework and projects have access to new changes in educational technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the use of ChatGPT, etc. There are many benefits and challenges with AI in education. This includes benefits and challenges for both students and educators. In addition to new technological changes, there are also changes in curriculum and the philosophies of educators. One of these includes the concept of Critical Race Theory (CRT).
Although this is not a new concept, it is important to understand the history of CRT and how it is both innovative and controversial in the K-12 educational system and in higher education. This concept has been around since the 1980’s and has been part of conversations in higher education and academia for years but has in recent years become controversial in school systems and political environments.
For this article, it is vital to know the history, impact on 21st Century education, and the different perspectives when it comes to critical race theory. In order to understand the unique discussions around CRT it is first important to know what critical race theory is.
What is Critical Race Theory?
Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, a law professor at the U.C.L.A. School of Law and Columbia Law School, first developed the term “critical race theory.” The emphasis on this concept was to introduce the idea of colorblindness within the education system and take a detailed look at the history of race in American society.
Generally, CRT, at its core, is a philosophy, pedagogy, and curriculum that focuses on all aspects of American history and how race has constructed societal norms. From the beginning, CRT has recognized that systemic racism has been part of American society and contributes to inequality in the United States. Critical race theory in the 21st Century has brought new waves of controversy in the most recent times.
Critical Race Theory in 21st Century Schools
There have been multiple attempts to be transparent when it comes to race and history in schools. The 1619 Project is another example of how academics, civil rights advocates, and historians have found a way to bring race and social inequality to the forefront of education for today’s students in the K-16 spectrum. When it comes to analyzing or teaching CRT in schools there have been both positive advocates and those who are staunchly against having these ideas taught to students. Many news outlets, schools, and universities have found ways to either confirm or deny the importance of CRT, but what critical race theory is still remains part of the individual experience.
As a former middle school social studies teacher, I understand the importance of research and evidence-based work. When teaching students it is vital to show students the importance of concepts, academic inquiry, and analyzing local and global perspectives. Although critical race theory can be controversial, it is important to allow students the ability to think and analyze information freely and critically. States such as Florida, South Carolina, and Iowa have passed legislation to ban CRT in schools.
Meanwhile, other states, such as California and Vermont, have differing views and are finding ways to incorporate CRT without an all-out ban. Still, depending on the state and political make up the idea of having transparent dialogues about race and social equality can vary. This translates into K-12 education systems that may support CRT and a holistic historical viewpoint, while others may have a complete ban on CRT in classrooms or a mixture of both perspectives academically and legislatively.
Differing Perspectives on Critical Race Theory
Although there are varying perspectives on CRT, it is important to know that the opinion on whether CRT is for the positive benefit of students, or a push of radical ideals is dependent on the individual. One should do their own research and find evidence based on whether or not to support CRT or to find a counterargument.
The history of American society has echoes of racial discrimination, diversity and inclusion efforts, and the ability to adapt with the times. Whether an educator feels race is a construct or a matter of social propaganda, it is important to honor the idea of free speech. Subsequently, it is essential to find proactive ways to teach future leaders the importance of understanding the history of education and social mobility regardless of personal opinion. It is important for the teacher and school administrator to create an environment where students feel safe to learn and express inquiry while finding professional ways to grow and develop future leaders.
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