Affirmative Action in Higher Education Teach-Out

Kyra reminds us how important it is to know - and disrupt what we think we know - about our communities, including our understanding of what we know about others and even our own cultures. Furthermore, she calls us to share our learning with those around us.

Even if we do not realize it, we all hold biases. These are called implicit biases. Becoming aware of these can help us be less biased in our interactions with others. Additionally, there are many ways each of us can critically reflect about our own biases and privilege, which may impact how we view our responsibility in promoting equitable representation and access in education.

Consider taking an Implicit Association Test (IAT), an online-based research tool, which can help us develop awareness of implicit, or unconsciously-held, attitudes, preferences, or beliefs we hold. There are several possible topics you can explore. Note that the tests are completely optional, designed for adults who are aged 18 or older, and you may continue the Teach-Out without participating.

1. To take an IAT, go to https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/ where you can register your email address or enter as a guest under “Project Implicit Social Attitudes.”
2. Review the information on the “Preliminary Information” page, and if you would like, click “I wish to proceed” at the bottom of the page.
3. There are several versions of the test available which focus on topics including race, religion, age, etc. Each test typically takes 10 minutes to complete.
4. When finished, you will receive the results of your test via email and more information about the test.

After you’ve taken one or more Implicit Association Tests, reflect on the following:

• How did your test results compare with what you expected?
• What is something that surprised you? Why do you think that is?
• Are there any personal changes you hope to make after learning more about implicit attitudes or preferences that you hold? If so, what is one change you can make?

You may wish to learn more about these tests on Harvard University’s Project Implicit website