In the education system, we are constantly striving towards the achievement of quality programming for our students. As well as being concerned with the quality of education, educators need to be acutely aware of the importance of achieving equity. At times, individuals have mistakenly used the terms equality and equity synonymously. The two terms, however, have very unique and distinct meanings.
Equality implies a likeness or sameness in terms of measure, quality, or amount.
Equity, however, addresses the fair and just treatment of individuals, ensuring bias and favoritism do not exist. The equal treatment of individuals, however, does not automatically result in equitable outcomes for these individuals. The equal treatment of individuals or groups who are unequal at the outset will not result in equitable outcomes. Achieving equitable outcomes necessitates some groups and individuals receiving more resources and supports than others. Only then can outcomes be deemed equitable.