Teaching math for social justice is a tool to challenge social inequities and empower students and teachers alike to critically engage with mathematical concepts. Here are some principles of teaching math for social justice and why it is important to explore mathematics through this lens.
1. Addressing inequity - mathematics education has been and continues to be a source of inequity - certain groups face barriers to achievement and access in mathematics. Teaching mathematics through the lens of social justice education seeks to address these inequities by making math education more inclusive and accessible to all students. "Machine learning algorithms don’t just predict the past; they also reflect current social inequities." - D'Ignazio & Klein (2020)
2. Connecting math to the real world - educators and students can see the real implications of mathematical ideas by connecting math to real-world contexts. Students are encouraged to approach concepts critically and use math as a tool for analyzing social issues. "Data feminism begins by analyzing how power operates in the world." - D'Ignazio & Klein (2020),Principle - Examine Power
3. Cultural relevance - incorporating diverse perspectives in mathematics education helps students see the relevance of math to their own lives. This can enhance engagement, improve inclusivity, and empower students to break down barriers and use math to their advantage. "Data feminism asserts that data are not neutral or objective. They are the products of unequal social relations, and this context is essential for conducting accurate, ethical analysis." - D'Ignazio & Klein (2020), Principle - Consider Context
4. Promoting critical thinking - students are encouraged to analyze the role of math in society. They will question assumptions, consider diverse perspectives, and understand the implications of their mathematical decisions.