Culturally Sensitive Curricula Scales (CSCS): roots and branches

There is a growing body of research on differential outcomes and experiences of Black, Asian, and other racially minoritised students in relation to their White counterparts. Culturally sensitive curricula can help address racial equality gaps in higher education and may support the development of culturally competent graduates equipped to contribute to social change. Prior to the CSCS, there has been no instrument developed to facilitate quantitative research on and analysis of the relationship between cultural sensitivity of higher education curricula and key educational outcomes. This chapter outlines the conceptualization and validation of the Culturally Sensitive Curriculum Scales that are the focus of this book. The chapter reports on emerging evidence of the impact of culturally sensitive curricula on students’ engagement and suggests how such curricula could positively influence educational outcomes. The Culturally Sensitive Curricula Scales make a significant, original conceptual and methodological contribution to learning, teaching, and educational research.