Middle School - Reduction of Bias
An expansion of individual career choices, based on personal interests and abilities and not limited by sex, race, ethnicity, age, or handicap
Learner Goal 1
Gain knowledge of different occupations and of changing male and female roles.
Indicators
- Describe advantages and problems of entering a nontraditional occupation.
- Describe the advantages of taking courses related to personal interests, even if such courses are most often taken by members of the opposite gender.
- Describe stereotypes, biases, and discriminatory behaviors that may limit opportunities for women and men in certain occupations.
- Identify the current and forecasted gender ratios in the workforce.
- Describe personal attributes that would affirm a nontraditional career choice and ones that would limit a nontraditional career choice.
Learner Goal 2
Gain awareness of what constitutes equal career opportunities for all individuals regardless of race, ethnic background, and/or disability.
Indicators
- Define the terms race, ethnic background, disability, stereotype, fair labor practice, and age discrimination.
- Demonstrate an understanding of equal opportunity policies in the world of work.
- Describe situations in which individuals have overcome stereotyping and/or discrimination in order to reach their career goals.
- Describe the advantages of having equal career opportunities for all.
Suggested Activities
- Audiovisual materials that are free of bias and encourage nontraditional choice
- Nontraditional speakers to serve as exemplary role models (including parental roles)*
- Attitude inventories
- Speakers representing equal rights agencies
- Parent workshops*
- Supplemental curriculum materials, such as the books Choices and Challenges
* This and other starred activities facilitate parental involvement.
