Educational stratification refers to the separation of students based upon measureable differences in learning levels and abilities; stratification can therefore occur between schools, within a school (tracking) and even within a classroom (ability grouping).

Stratification policies respond to the different styles of learning demonstrated by schoolchildren.  In order to facilitate education, students are grouped homogeneously.  Students theoretically switch groups as their learning styles and achievement levels change.  These are measured in various ways:  informal assessment, standardized testing and student input.

Critics of stratification policies take issue with how ability groups are distinguished.  Because of assessment bias or pervasive discrimination, educational stratification replicates societal inequalities in the classroom.  Moreover, students are too often labeled by their ability group, creating dangerous stereotypes and limiting mobility between tracks.

A dilemma arises.  How does an educator adequately address the educational needs of individual students without promoting inequity in the classroom?

This website aims to provide a broad outline of educational stratification and present both the advantages and adverse consequences of stratification policies.  There are no easy solutions to the dilemma of educational stratification, but being informed is the first step to ensure that every student has the opportunity for a meaningful education.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Web of Stratification

The key points of educational stratification—including the history and use of ability groups in the classroom and the ongoing debate on tracking policies—illustrated in flow chart diagrams.

History of Stratification

The origins and manifestations of educational stratification, from both a historical and legal perspective.

Stratification in the Classroom

How stratification policies materialize in the classroom, affect teaching practices and influence student involvement.

Is Tracking Necessary?

Advantages of educational stratification as a tool for facilitating the appropriate education of all students.

Is Tracking Unfair?

Critique of educational stratification as a policy that promotes inequities and hinders student achievement.

Resources

Become more informed on educational stratification with online links and recommended readings.

See side panel for access to these pages.