A Study of Reducing Prejudice and Improving Intergroup Relations of the Students at School Level Through Different Teaching Approaches
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study examines the impact of teaching strategies on prejudice and intergroup relations among secondary students in public high schools in Pakistan’s Lodhran district. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, researchers administered a self-developed questionnaire on prejudiced attitudes and intergroup contact to 215 students from Kehroor Pakka, Lodhran, and Dunya Pur, achieving a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.834 for reliability. Findings from 213 valid responses reveal that while students are generally tolerant, biases persist regarding gender, caste, and religion. Cooperative learning and culturally responsive teaching (CRT) improved intergroup relations, especially when teachers demonstrated fairness and respect. However, challenges such as teacher bias, favoritism, and limited intergroup interaction were reported. SPSS analysis showed that group learning effectively reduced conflicts, and students favored cross-caste friendships and discussions of relevant issues. The study recommends professional development and curriculum adjustments for preservice teachers to foster inclusive, no prejudicial classroom environments.
Source: Global Social Sciences Review
Authors: Shumaila Shafi, Waqas Akbar, Muhammad Rafiq-uz-Zaman
Institution: Islamia University of Bahawalpur
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4404704482