Diversity

Diversity in the classroom is the inclusion of all the differences each student brings to the classroom. Teachers often believe diversity to only be racial but as Jean Omrod argues, diversity includes racial, ethnic, cultural, gender, physical and mental abilities and socioeconomic differences (Omrod, 2011). It is important to note that there is a lot of variability that exist within a single group. Two Panamanian students may have different home life because of different socioeconomic backgrounds. Likewise, there is also a great deal of overlap amongst any two given groups.

Often teachers have ignored the diversity in their classroom, arguing that all their students are the “same”. Or they may recognize a child from the non-dominant group as “the other” and view the child’s experiences as a downfall to their education (Swartz, 2009). For example, they may label a child with ADHD simply as a behavioral problem without recognizing the artistic talents the child may have. As Omrod stresses, it is immensely important for teachers to accept the diversity in their classroom and use the experiences to enhance their lessons (Omrod, 2011). If a teacher educates him or herself on the differences that exist within his or her classroom, he or she could better provide accommodation and modifications for students providing them with the best learning environment possible. Simple changes such as including more hands on projects for students who are kinesthetic or reading authentic cultural books can really make an impact. By recognizing and incorporating differences, teachers can better engage students who are eager to share their experiences. Additionally, by taking the time to appreciate the myriad of differences in any given classrooms, teachers are educating students on how to be respectful and responsible adults.

The accompanying video allows us to observe the important benefits that the inclusion of diversity can have on students, teachers and the school setting as a whole. media type="custom" key="24009032"

Posted by Lusdymer Pichardo, October 4, 2013 References Diversity in Alberta School: A Journey to Inclusion. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8c-3YCr7zR0

Omrod, J. E. (2011). //Educational Psychology.// Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

Swartz, E. (2009). Diversity: Gatekeeping Knowledge and Maintaining Inequalities. //American Educational Research Association//, 79(2) 1044-1083. http://www.jstor.org/stable/40469063