Diversity in the Classroom & Why it is Important
Diversity in the Classroom & Why it is Important
By Chloe Croteau
What is Diversity in the Classroom Important?
Diversity is what makes us different from others around us. This could be our gender, sexuality, cultural background, religion, etc. Having a diverse classroom allows students, and even the teacher, to learn about others. In turn, students can develop compassion for peers who are diverse. Leaning about others can also lower the chances of stereotyping* happening. Students can also learn how to use their strengths when working with others.
Example- A project is assigned about different parts of the world, and a student from China is able to use their knowledge on their background as a strength to help their group members. The peers are able to learn about their classmate, as well as gain a better understanding on the project!
*Stereotyping- to believe unfairly that all people or things with a particular characteristic are the same.
Be Careful of This!
Separation can happen in a class when students that have diversities in common group together. These groups tend to only interact with each other due to their similarities, but this is not a good thing when it comes to diversifying classrooms. This leads to what looks like segregation. Collaborative learning is no longer happening, and students are not learning about diverse peers. Teachers should look out for this and encourage all students to interact with one another.
How Can Teachers be Supportive?
- Listen!
- Students who are diverse just want to be heard. They don't want to feel judged or singled out. They belong just as much as any other student! If a student comes to you to talk, do not rush them or belittle them. Treat them as you wish to be treated. Respect is so important!
- Understand terms
- This one may seem silly, but it truly is important. Terms used to describe diverse individuals is a whole new language. Respecting the way a student chooses to refer to themselves is crucial when making a student feel respected and like they belong.
- Stand up against bullying
- Nothing should be brushed off. Insensitive comments should not be ignored. A huge way to gain respect as an educator is taking a strong no-bullying stance. Although this should be all the time, it is very important when it comes to diverse students.
- Seek help!
- If you are truly stuck on what to do, or how to address a situation, do not be afraid to seek help with the issue. You are not alone. Look into organizations, resources, or other teachers when you feel stuck. We are all in this together!
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The Britannica Dictionary. (2022). Stereotype Definition . Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved October 5, 2022, from https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/stereotype
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Science is everybody's party: 6 ways to support diversity and inclusion in STEM. World Economic Forum. (2020, August 17). Retrieved October 5, 2022, from https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/08/science-stem-support-inclusion-diversity-equality/
What do we mean by diversity and inclusion? Victorian Government. (2019, July 30). Retrieved October 5, 2022, from https://www.vic.gov.au/dpc-diversity-and-inclusion-strategy-2019-2021/what-do-we-mean-diversity-and-inclusion
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