As we all know dress codes stipulate a universal “look” while uniforms homogenise student groups.
A dress code calls for similar coloured trousers and shirts and address other areas of student appearance such as facial hair, the length of hair, and body piercing. Uniforms, however, put every student into a specific, defined outfit.
Dress codes are more appealing because they still allow for some variety and individuality within established boundaries.
Button-down shirts or polo shirts allow for personal expression while keeping the overall look of the student body the same. Dress codes, however, may be more difficult to enforce because they lead to the open door interpretation.
Schools in Tanzania all use uniforms as a means to further the process of education. This is because they’re creating a less distractive educational environment that enables better classroom management and promotes a higher degree of learning.
Additionally uniforms help eliminate school gang activity, often tied to specific identifying colours worn by gang members.
According to a study conducted by the University of Notre Dame’s Sociology Department student uniforms have no direct effect on substance use, behavioural problems or attendance.
To manage school uniforms or dress codes there must be established clear reasons related to the overall educational process in justifying policies.
This includes detailed self-studies, focus-groups, research, and the specific needs of the school or system.
If parents are part of the initial process and included in the final decision making phase, such support will be far more evident as the policy is implemented.
The education system is in a constant state of fluctuation, reforming itself every few decades as it searches for ways to improve standards.
Often, the call for reforms, particularly by non-educators, fixates on subjective and emotional solutions like “emphasize on patriotism,” “get back to the basic ‘three R’s’” and so forth. Uniforms and dress codes may well be within this realm of fantasy solutions to real educational problems.
