Recognising bias

Notice how assumptions, stereotypes or bias may shape information, judgement and behaviour.

Why it matters

An unchecked assumption can influence whose account seems credible or who is considered suitable for a role. Questioning it helps make the basis of a judgement clearer and opens it to reconsideration.

What this can look like

• questions a stereotype or generalisation about a person or group
• notices when a judgement relies on an assumption rather than relevant evidence
• identifies how wording or images frame a person or issue

Youth relevance

Posts about a community, expectations about classmates and decisions about group roles can carry assumptions about people. Young people can question what supports those judgements and whose experience may have been overlooked.

Ways young people can practise this skill

• examine how wording and images frame people or communities in media accounts
• review assumptions about who would suit different roles in a shared project
• reconsider a judgement after comparing it with relevant evidence or overlooked perspectives

Connected themes

• Main theme · Inclusion & diversity
• Critical thinking