The subtle nature of bias in modern society is a topic I've touched on before. And a post this week from one of my fellow bloggers makes a compelling case for how this phenomenon can occur even when people have only the very best of intentions. As a case in point, consider the well-known tendency that many of us, elementary school teachers in particular, have to talk in terms of "boys and girls." There's the seemingly innocuous "good morning, boys and girls." And "how about the boys take care of cleaning out the brushes and the girls are in charge of putting the paints away." And so on. But what does this language really convey? And why is it necessary in the first place? Read More