Upstanders in Action

In this six-lesson unit, designed for Mathematics and able to be complemented by Civics and Citizenship, students explore how data collection methods shape representation and influence real-world decisions. They examine how bias and exclusion affect fairness and inclusion.

Students conduct their own ethical statistical investigation and use their findings to develop an evidence-based Upstander Action Plan, recognising mathematics as a tool for informed, responsible change to issues of diversity and inclusion within their community

Upstanders in Action has been designed to:

• Investigate data collection methods to understand how they shape the stories told about communities

• Analyse how biased or incomplete data influences representation and outcomes

• Develop and apply ethical data collection protocols that prioritise participant safety, particularly when exploring sensitive topics like diversity and lived experience.

• Create an evidence-based Upstander Action Plan, guiding students to use their mathematical findings to propose realistic, positive changes that support fairness and representation in their community.

Through mathematical inquiry, ethical reasoning, and real-world civic analysis, students will build the skills to use statistics as a powerful tool for advocacy, enabling them to identify unfairness and take informed, positive action as active and responsible Upstanders.

Scroll down to explore each lesson or click the download button on the right-hand side of this unit to download the entire unit at once. ✨

This unit is a part of our suite of Courage to Care: Upstander Education Resources, created in collaboration with Courage to Care. Cool.org gratefully acknowledges Courage to Care for their generous contributions and collaboration in developing these resources, and extends sincere thanks to The Telematics Trust for their philanthropic support in funding these lessons.