Proximity bias is a well-documented cognitive bias that can affect our behavior and decision-making, particularly in social situations.
In the context of education, this bias often manifests itself in the classroom, where physical proximity plays an important role in the interactions between professors and their students. When teaching in a traditional seated classroom environment, professors are often physically close to their students and can see and hear them more clearly. This can lead to more personalized interactions, better communication, better understanding and empathy for their personal challenges, and a stronger sense of community. However, this can also create unintentional biases that favor in-person students over online or remote students.
For example, professors may unconsciously give more attention to the students who are physically present in the classroom, while neglecting or overlooking online students unintentionally. Proximity bias, coupled with the innate need for humans to connect with other humans, can emphasize this further. This can create an unequal learning environment for online students, who may feel isolated or undervalued. Additionally, online students may face challenges in participating in class discussions or group activities, which can further impact their learning experience.
The impact of proximity bias on education is particularly relevant in the context of the post COVID-19 classroom, which had forced many universities to transition to online or hybrid learning models. As a result, some professors are now facing new challenges in engaging with their students and ensuring that all students receive an equal education.
To address the risks of proximity bias in the classroom, it is important for professors to be aware of their biases and take steps to mitigate them. This can include using digital tools to provide equal opportunities for all students to participate in class discussions and activities, creating inclusive learning environments that recognize and value the diversity of the student population, and using assessment strategies that are unbiased and based on clear criteria. By acknowledging and addressing proximity bias in the classroom, professors can create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment that supports the success of all students, regardless of their physical location.
To help mitigate the risks of proximity bias in an online class, professors can take the following steps:
- Ensure equal opportunities for participation: Professors can design online classes that provide equal opportunities for all students to participate in class discussions, group activities, and other collaborative learning opportunities, such as live seminars. This can be achieved by using digital tools such as video conferencing and chat rooms that allow students to communicate with one another and the professor in real-time.
- Use inclusive language and materials: Professors can use inclusive language and materials that recognize and value the diversity of their student population. This can help to create a sense of belonging for all students, regardless of their physical location.
- Encourage active engagement: Professors can encourage active engagement from all students by providing regular feedback, answering questions promptly, and setting clear expectations for participation. This can help to create a sense of community among students and foster a culture of mutual respect (plus, it's online best practice).
- Implement assessment strategies that are unbiased: Professors can implement assessment strategies that are unbiased and based on clear criteria. This can help to ensure that all students are evaluated fairly and that proximity bias does not influence the grading process.
- Create opportunities for one-on-one interactions: Professors can create opportunities for one-on-one interactions with online students, such as virtual office hours, to provide personalized support and feedback. This can help to build a stronger relationship between the professor and online students, and mitigate the risks of proximity bias.
In conclusion, proximity bias is a real risk in online classes and also aligns with DEI efforts, but professors can take steps to mitigate its impact by designing classes that are inclusive and provide equal opportunities for all students to participate and engage. By doing so, professors can create a learning environment that values the diversity of their student population and ensures that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
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