Assessing the Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Educational Equity in Indian Primary Schools: A Structural Modelling Perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Indian primary education system plays a crucial role in the nation’s socio-economic development and human capital formation. Despite progress in expanding access to education, challenges persist, particularly regarding educational equity. In a diverse country like India, ensuring educational equity is complex due to factors such as income inequality, caste disparities, regional variations, and resource access. Globally, educational equity has gained prominence in research and policymaking, recognizing its profound impact on individual lives and societal progress. In India, persistent disparities in access, quality, and outcomes highlight the urgency to address educational equity. Previous research emphasizes the influence of socioeconomic factors on educational attainment. However, understanding these mechanisms requires an interdisciplinary lens. Structural modeling, particularly Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), offers a robust framework to unravel the relationships between socioeconomic factors and educational outcomes. This research aims to contribute to the discourse on educational equity in Indian primary education and provide evidence-based policy insights. Using a structural modeling perspective enriched by qualitative case studies, we explore the intricate relationships between socioeconomic factors and educational outcomes. By integrating quantitative analysis with qualitative inquiry, we offer a comprehensive framework to address socio-economic disparities and promote a more inclusive education system in India.