Exam #3

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School

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College *

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Course

240

Subject

Psychology

Date

Jun 27, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

3

Uploaded by BrittanyAdams221

Fostering Academic Achievement and Social Development: A Theoretical Approach to School Policy In the pursuit of maximizing academic achievement and social development for all students, it is essential to create a school environment that is inclusive, supportive, and cognizant of the diverse needs of its student body. This article outlines the policies I would implement in a school setting, drawing on the theories of renowned educational theorists to address the challenges of cliques, varying learning levels, income backgrounds, ethnic/racial diversity, rural/urban settings, and gender issues. Firstly, to address the different levels of learning and to ensure that each child reaches their full potential, I would apply Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development. Piaget's stages of development suggest that children learn best when they are active and seeking solutions for themselves (Piaget, 1952). Therefore, I would implement differentiated instruction and individualized learning plans to cater to the various stages of cognitive development within the classroom. Lev Vygotsky's sociocultural theory would also play a crucial role in my school's policy. Vygotsky emphasized the importance of social interaction in learning, suggesting that knowledge is constructed through social activity (Vygotsky, 1978). To foster a collaborative learning environment, I would encourage group work and peer tutoring, which would also help mitigate the formation of cliques by promoting cross-group interactions. To address income backgrounds and the potential disparities they create, I would draw on the work of Vonnie C. McLoyd, who highlighted the impact of economic disadvantage on children's development (McLoyd, 1998). I would ensure that the school provides resources such as free or reduced-price lunch programs and access to school supplies, thus reducing the stigma associated with economic hardship. Ethnic and racial diversity in the school would be embraced
through a multicultural curriculum, as suggested by James A. Banks' dimensions of multicultural education (Banks, 1989). This approach would include integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum and promoting cultural competence among both students and staff. In considering the rural/urban setting of the school, I would apply Urie Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, which posits that development is influenced by various environmental systems (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). Policies would be tailored to the specific needs of the community, whether it be providing transportation for rural students or creating partnerships with urban organizations for internships and community projects. Gender issues would be addressed through policies that promote gender equity in the classroom. Drawing on the work of Carol Gilligan, who critiqued the male-centered approach to moral development (Gilligan, 1982), I would ensure that the school's curriculum and policies are free from gender bias and that all students have equal opportunities to succeed. In conclusion, the policies I would implement in my school are deeply rooted in the theories of Locke, Rousseau, Piaget, Vygotsky, Bronfenbrenner, Burton & Clark, and McLoyd. By applying these theoretical frameworks, the school would be well-equipped to maximize the academic achievement and social development of all students, regardless of their individual circumstances. Works Cited:
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