Analysis of the A-Class Divided Experiment- Insights into Group Processes and Social Structures
Looking at this experiment by teacher Jane Elliot, I could not help but wonder at the genius behind this. My immediate reaction to this was that it was an eye-opener to the notion of racism. Children are often a blank slate; they are not born racist, making racism a taught aspect. As the film progressed and I saw the reaction of these minors to the induced discrimination, it made me realize that there is a lot that can be done to prevent the notion of racism and all forms of discrimination from going to the next generation. From the reaction, I also learned that children get the chance to counter various stereotypes just before they develop and fully manifest lasting prejudices, as well as to have a cognizance of the notion that every person should be treated fairly and with respect (Frontline PBS, 2019). Further, from the people’s reaction, it was clear that most individuals were aware of the menace of racism but were willing to turn a blind eye to it as long it would never really affect them.
However, this experiment was revealing and put them to light. The fact that the children told the teacher innocently that they had heard the ‘N-word’ within their environment implies that their parents engaged in the practice of racism. As such, the experiment proved the laxity of the parents in accosting this issue because they and their children would still not have to suffer the ramifications of having a ‘lesser skin tone’ (Bloom, 2005). The backlash in this small town was an indication of the ignorance that these people are willing to overlook a problem as long as they do not lose. Also, what stood out most about people’s reactions is that people are strongly unwilling to face and accept that racial prejudice is prevalent in the communities we live in, and we are willing to overlook it.
References
Bloom, S. (2005). The lesson of a Lifetime. Smithsonian Magazine. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/lesson-of-a-lifetime-72754306/.
FRONTLINE PBS. (2019). A Class Divided (full film) | FRONTLINE [Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mcCLm_LwpE.
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Question 
Watch the Frontline episode A Class Divided [53:05].
What was your reaction to the experiment?
Analysis of the A-Class Divided Experiment- Insights into Group Processes and Social Structures
What stood out to you most about people’s reaction to it?
Relate the experiment to any ideas and concepts from the Group Processes and Structure research tradition.