Cultural diversity in the classroom is on the rise. In 2014, U.S. public schools hit a minority majority milestone with Latino, African-American, and Asian students having surpassed the number of white students. In 2044, the U.S. Census predicts that over half of the nation’s population will be people of color, so this
trend will likely continue. In our increasingly diverse and multicultural society, it’s more important than ever for teachers to incorporate culturally responsive instruction in the classroom -- whether teaching elementary school, middle school or high school students. And the increase of diversity doesn’t only relate to race and ethnicity; it can include students of different religion, economic status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and language background. Interested in
becoming a teacher? Learn more about Drexel’s Teacher Certification program. Why is it Important to Encourage Diversity in Schools and Workplaces?Fostering inclusion and awareness around multicultural education and taking a culturally responsive approach to teaching benefits all students. Not only does creating greater multicultural awareness and inclusion help students with different backgrounds and needs succeed, but it encourages acceptance and helps prepare students to thrive in an exponentially diverse world. Our Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness Certificate Program is a great opportunity for teachers to learn how to create positive classroom environments and can serve as a foundation for understanding how to promote diversity in your classroom. Diversity in and out of the classroom will continue to grow, so it’s essential we prepare students to adapt to an evolving world and embrace those different from themselves. Learn more how the programs at the Drexel School of Education are helping to prepare more culturally-responsive educators today. How do you Manage Diversity in the Classroom?There are several ways teachers and administrators, such as principals and coaches, can ensure that both the classroom environment and curriculum are responsive to the increasing cultural diversity of our society. These strategies will encourage all students’ cultural awareness, enhancing each student’s sense of identity, and foster inclusion in the classroom community.
Why is it Important to Teach Culture in the Classroom?It is important to remind ourselves why diversity and cultural awareness is so crucial in the classroom and the benefits it can have on students now and in the long-term. Teaching diversity exposes students to various cultural and social groups, preparing students to become better citizens in their communities. These culturally responsive teaching strategies will help you to promote diversity in the classroom. With these culturally responsive teaching strategies in mind, it’s important to remind ourselves why diversity and cultural awareness is so crucial in the classroom and the benefits it can have on students now and in the long-term. Students Become More EmpatheticPromoting awareness and creating a personal connection with diverse cultures in the classroom can prevent students from developing prejudices later in life. It allows them to empathize with people different from themselves since they’re more aware of the experiences someone of a different race or cultural group may face. Students Gain a Better Understanding of Lessons and PeopleWhen working and learning with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures present in the classroom, students gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. It also teaches students how to use their own strengths and points of view to contribute in a diverse working environment. Students Become More Open-MindedNaturally, by exposing students to a diverse range of opinions, thoughts, and cultural backgrounds, you’re encouraging them to be more open-minded later in life. This will make them open to new ideas and be able to attain a greater comprehension on a topic by taking in different points of view. Students Feel More Confident and SafeStudents who learn about different cultures during their education feel more comfortable and safe with these differences later in life. This allows them to interact in a wider range of social groups and feel more confident in themselves as well as in their interactions with others. Students Are Better Prepared for a Diverse WorkplaceWith the rise of globalization, it’s more important to be able to work with people from different cultures and social groups. If students are exposed to diversity and learn cultural awareness in the classroom, it sets them up to flourish in the workforce. What are strategies for cultural diversity?Here are 5 strategies to help transform your organization as well as manage differences and avoid cultural issues in the workplace:. Hiring. ... . Communication. ... . Religious Accommodations. ... . Team-Building. ... . Intercultural Interaction. ... . Policies and Procedures. ... . Zero-Tolerance Policy. ... . Sensitivity Training.. How do you develop appreciation for different cultural perspectives?One of the best ways to understand and appreciate another culture is by listening to those who are a part of the fabric of that society. Listen to their stories, understand the implications behind the aspects of their culture that you are interested in, and use that understanding to broaden your worldview.
What types of activities can develop an appreciation for diverse cultures?The following activities will help children respectfully interact and engage with people from diverse cultures!. Listen to songs in different languages. ... . Play a board game. ... . Eat at a local ethnic restaurant. ... . Check out PenPalWorld.com. ... . Listen to music. ... . Cook up a storm. ... . Read a book! ... . Make a homemade passport.. How do you appreciate and respect cultural diversity?It's a simple thing, but it's a huge marker of culture!. Make friends. Get to know your friends' families and see how their customs and traditions differ from yours. ... . Talk to people. When you meet people from a different culture, ask them about their lives. ... . Read. ... . Watch movies. ... . Listen to radio shows and podcasts. ... . Travel.. |