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Equity in Education: Analyzing Distributive, Procedural, and Outcome Equity

Introduction

Equity in education is a fundamental principle underpinning any educational system's

goals. It ensures all students have equal opportunities to access quality education and achieve

their full potential (Pereira et al., 2017). To address the multifaceted nature of equity, scholars,

and policymakers have categorized it into three main types: distributive equity, procedural

equity, and outcome equity. Each of these equity types plays a crucial role in promoting a just

and fair education system. In this essay, we will examine and assess these three types of equity in

education, providing examples and insights to help understand their significance.

I. Distributive Equity

Distributive equity in education refers to the fair allocation of resources, opportunities,

and educational services among students. It aims to ensure that all students have access to the

necessary tools and support to succeed, regardless of their background, socioeconomic status, or

other factors (Pereira et al., 2017). Distributive equity is primarily concerned with the equitable

distribution of inputs, such as funding, facilities, and teachers, to create a level playing field for

all students.

Example: School Funding

One of the most common areas where distributive equity is applied is allocating school

funding. In many educational systems, funding is distributed based on various factors, including

the number of students in a school, the local property tax base, and the specific needs of the

students (Strunk & Locke, 2019). However, significant disparities often exist, leading to

underfunded schools in economically disadvantaged areas. This results in unequal access to

resources and educational opportunities.

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For instance, a study in the United States found that schools in low-income

neighborhoods receive significantly less funding than those in affluent areas. This funding gap

directly impacts the quality of education, with underfunded schools needing more textbooks,

sufficient technology, and a shortage of experienced teachers (Strunk & Locke, 2019).

Distributive equity calls for reforms in funding allocation to rectify such disparities and provide

an equal chance for every student to succeed.

Example: Access to Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

Another example of distributive equity concerns access to advanced courses like

Advanced Placement (AP) classes. In some schools, students from privileged backgrounds have

greater access to these rigorous courses, which can enhance their academic credentials and

college prospects (Strunk & Locke, 2019). This disparity in access can be attributed to

inadequate counseling, prerequisites, and a lack of encouragement for students from

underprivileged backgrounds.

To promote distributive equity, schools should ensure that all students, regardless of

socioeconomic background, have equal opportunities to enroll in advanced courses. This can be

achieved by providing adequate information, reducing prerequisites, and offering extra support

for students who need it (Strunk & Locke, 2019). By leveling the playing field, distributive

equity can help students reach their full potential, regardless of their starting point.

II. Procedural Equity

Procedural equity in education focuses on the fairness and transparency of the processes

and policies governing the educational system. It ensures all students have equal access to

information, participation, and decision-making in the education system (Rosenlund, 2019).

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Procedural equity concerns the procedures and rules governing educational practices and how

they impact students' opportunities and experiences.

Example: Admissions and Enrollment Policies

Procedurall equity plays a vital role in admissions and enrollment policies, particularly in

higher education institutions. Admissions criteria that disproportionately favor certain groups or

perpetuate biases can undermine equity (Rosenlund, 2019). For example, if a university's

admission policies heavily rely on standardized tests, students from underprivileged backgrounds

who cannot afford test preparation courses may be disadvantaged.

Procedural equity calls for a fair and transparent admissions process that considers a

broader range of factors, such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays, to assess a

student's potential (Rosenlund, 2019). By revising and improving these processes, educational

institutions can reduce biases and provide a fair chance to all applicants, regardless of their

socioeconomic status or other demographic factors.

Example: Special Education Services

Procedural equity is also pertinent in special education services. Students with disabilities

have the right to receive an appropriate education that meets their needs. However, identifying

and providing these services must be transparent and fair (Rosenlund, 2019). Sometimes,

students may be inappropriately placed in special education programs due to procedural errors,

lack of parental involvement, or cultural biases.

To address procedural equity in special education, schools must ensure that identifying

and providing services is transparent, non-discriminatory, and inclusive of parental input

(Rosenlund, 2019). This safeguards the rights of students with disabilities and ensures they

receive the education they are entitled to.

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III. Outcome Equity

Outcome equity in education concerns the fairness of the results and achievements of

students, regardless of their background. It guarantees that students have an equal opportunity to

excel academically and reach their full potential (Jurado et al., 2020). Outcome equity is

primarily concerned with the disparities in educational outcomes, such as graduation rates, test

scores, and academic achievements.

Example: Achievement Gaps

One of the most prominent issues related to outcome equity is the achievement gap. This

gap refers to the disparities in educational outcomes between different racial, ethnic, and

socioeconomic groups (Jurado et al., 2020). For example, in the United States, there is a

significant achievement gap between white and non-white students and between students from

low-income and affluent backgrounds.

Outcome equity requires educational institutions to address these gaps and ensure that all

students have an equal opportunity to succeed academically (Jurado et al., 2020). This can

involve targeted interventions, such as tutoring, mentorship programs, and additional resources,

to support underperforming students and close the achievement gap.

Example: Graduation Rates

Another critical aspect of outcome equity is the disparity in graduation rates. Students

from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those in foster care, homeless youth, or those

experiencing significant family disruptions, often face higher dropout rates (Jurado et al., 2020).

This can be due to a need for more stability and support, making it difficult for these students to

complete their education.

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Outcome equity calls for strategies to improve graduation rates for vulnerable student

populations. Schools can implement programs to provide additional support, such as counseling,

mentorship, and assistance with basic needs, to help these students overcome obstacles and

successfully graduate.

Conclusion

Equity in education is a multifaceted concept encompassing distributive equity,

procedural equity, and outcome equity. Each equity type is critical in ensuring all students have

equal opportunities to access quality education and achieve their full potential. Distributive

equity addresses allocating resources and opportunities, such as school funding and access to

advanced courses (Strunk & Locke, 2019). Procedural equity focuses on the fairness and

transparency of educational processes and policies, such as admissions criteria and special

education services. Outcome equity concerns the fairness of educational outcomes, including

achievement gaps and graduation rates.

Policymakers, educators, and stakeholders must recognize the interplay between these

equity types and work toward comprehensive solutions promoting a just and fair education

system. By addressing the disparities in resource allocation, improving procedural fairness, and

ensuring equal outcomes for all students, we can create a more equitable and inclusive

educational system that benefits society (Jurado et al., 2020). Equity in education is not just a

moral imperative; it is an investment in the future, as it empowers all students to reach their full

potential and contribute to a better society.

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References

Jurado de Los Santos, P., Moreno-Guerrero, A. J., Marín-Marín, J. A., & Soler Costa, R. (2020).

The term equity in education: A literature review with scientific mapping in the web of

science. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(10),

3526.

Pereira, R. H., Schwanen, T., & Banister, D. (2017). Distributive justice and equity in

transportation. Transport Reviews, 37(2), 170-191.

Rosenlund, D. (2019). Powerful knowledge and equity: How students from different

backgrounds approach procedural aspects of history in large-scale testing. Nordidactica:

Journal of Humanities and Social Science Education, (2019: 2), 28-49.

Strunk, K. K., & Locke, L. A. (2019). Research methods for social justice and equity in

education. Springer.