Students today live in what is being termed the Global Age. Due to globalization, technological advances and immigration, the world students live in and will work in has changed. Students need to develop skills that will make them marketable in a global workforce, where multinational or international employers require a workforce that values tolerance and respect.
It is no accident that most colleges and universities purposefully seek out a diverse student body. Diversity leads to differences in life experiences and perspective, thus increasing the depth of debate, the amount of discussion and increasing learning across all disciplines. The benefit is similar in the classroom.
The European Union has the motto "Unity in Diversity." The idea has received much support and has challenged the idea of assimilation in favor of multiculturalism. Striving for unity through respect, appreciation and awareness of differences is a positive way to bring people together. This notion supports personal identity while still allowing people with differences to belong to a larger united group. It is a positive model for a global community.
Promoting diversity in the classroom creates citizenship among students. Students learn the value and benefits of differences, while also learning to empathize with the unique challenges faced by their peers. This establishes a sense of community that transcends background and heritage, bringing awareness to individual rights and instilling duty.
Diversity in the classroom is a reality. Viewing this diversity as a positive attribute helps a diverse student population establish a sense of belonging. Students must feel that they are safe and that their personal identity is embraced. When students are comfortable in their learning environment their ability to achieve academically is enhanced; as well as their interest in supporting the success of their peers. While 90 percent of teachers are white, 40 percent of students are racially diverse. Teachers need to promote and support the diversity they intend to teach to.
Teaching diversity in the classroom provides ample opportunity to enrich the general curriculum. Students learn best when they can relate the curriculum to their lives and when the materials used in instruction are culturally appropriate and responsive.