What is the Equity Compass?
The Equity Compass is a framework that helps you to reflect on your current practice and develop equitable practice. It comprises eight dimensions of equity, each designed to apply a different lens to improve equitable experiences.
The Equity Compass graphic above shows eight dimensions of equity, grouped into four overarching areas. Each area represents an aim of equitable practice and is shown on a signpost. The four signposts are arranged outside the main circle.
The eight dimensions of equity are written in the outer layer of the circle; these indicate strong equitable practices. The inner layer of the circle indicates inequitable or weak practices.
The Equity Compass components are presented in the table below.
| Equity Compass areas | Strong practice (outer layer) | Weak practice (inner layer) |
|---|---|---|
| Challenging the status quo | Prioritising minoritised communities | Prioritising the dominant |
| Transforming power relations | Reproducing power | |
| Redistributing resources | Reinforcing privilege | |
| Working with and valuing minoritised communities | Participatory working | To |
| Asset-based approach | Deficit-based | |
| Embedding equity | Equity is mainstreamed | Tokenistic |
| Extending Equity | Community/society orientation | Individual |
| Long term | Short term |
Equity in Informal STEM Learning: Using the Equity Compass
Equity in Informal STEM Learning: Using the Equity Compass
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