What does the term “discrimination” mean in the context of education?

In the context of education, the term "discrimination" refers to unequal treatment based on identifiable characteristics such as race, gender, or disability. This definition underscores the concept that individuals or groups may face systemic disadvantages that affect their ability to access educational opportunities or resources equitably.

Discrimination can manifest in various forms, such as biased admission processes, unequal access to facilities, or differences in the quality of education provided to different groups. Recognizing this definition is crucial for educators and policymakers to implement practices that promote equity and inclusion, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed regardless of their background.

The other options represent concepts that are more aligned with equitable practices rather than discriminatory actions. For example, ensuring equal opportunity emphasizes fairness and accessibility, while favoring certain groups contradicts the idea of equity by promoting inequitable access. Similarly, streamlining school budgets does not pertain to discrimination in the educational context.