Our researchers noted this recent article lately.
Online Learning Experiences of Canadian Black Nova Scotians during Covid-19: Adopting an Intersectionality Framework
Frempong George, Raavee Kadam, Joyline Makani, Michelle McPherson, Nyasha Mandeya, and Timi Idris
Alberta Journal of Educational Research 69(1): 86-102
March 2023
DOI: 10.55016/ojs/ajer.v69i1.74846Abstract: Though school closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic affected all students globally, the effect was significantly more for students from marginalized and vulnerable communities. In Nova Scotia, Canada, the concern was the racial achievement gap that the education system is addressing through an inclusive education policy. The worry, especially for Black Nova Scotian students, was the online learning demands and the associated challenges. Through an analysis of a household survey and intersectionality framework, we explored these challenges. We argue that students have multiple and simultaneously acting identities that lead to differential learning experiences and outcomes, and an intersectionality approach should be considered to inform education improvement decisions.
Keywords: online learning, Black Canadians, intersectionality, household survey, structural equation modelling.
One of the main findings from the study was that “students who struggled with internet connectivity, access to electronic devices or insufficient digital skills of parents/guardians to support them had an impact on their excitement levels.” It is interesting that this would be true of any student, not just Black Nova Scotian students. While the article itself is an interesting and important read, and the policy implications are all worthwhile recommendations, one of the things that the authors missed documenting and reporting was how internet connectivity, access to electronic devices or insufficient digital skills of parents/guardians to support students was a bigger challenge for Black Nova Scotian students than it was for other students.
One of the things that everyone already knew, but the pandemic exposed in more stark was, was the significant disadvantages that minority students face in all aspects of the educational experience.