Individuation and discrimination in the classroom

A negative tone pervades much of the literature on teacher discrimination in the classroom, and conjures up images of inequality, oppression, and racism. This paper differentiates between the negative forms of discrimination (responding prejudicially to children) and individuation (discerning differences among children and responding to individual needs). Focus is on the positive face of discrimination, as exemplified by three teachers who are highly "individuating" in their attitudes and behaviors towards children.