#  >> K-12 >> Tutors

How to Make a Classroom Diverse

Diversity in a classroom from PK-12 and beyond makes teaching and learning rewarding and pleasurable writes James Banks in his 2007 book "Educating Citizens in a Multicultural Society." The benefits of diversity may not be immediately discernible because diversity isn't just confined to issues of race and color. National origins, gender, class, religion, and poverty also affect diversity. Needed are the support of all constituents who are directly responsible for the education of children, a positive attitude, and a willingness to attempt new methods of teaching. These are essential if implementation of diversity is to succeed.

Instructions

    • 1

      Make a banner, a poster or write on the chalk board a greeting such as "Welcome All Students" in English and in a foreign language commonly spoken in your area.

    • 2

      Ask students to correct you if you mispronounce their names. Use a wall map of the world, a globe, or an atlas to show the country or countries from where your students have come.

    • 3

      Make the physical environment of a homogenous class population diverse by displaying on the bulletin board artworks or information found in national or newspaper articles on, for example, achievements of physically challenged students.

    • 4

      Invite students to bring from home cultural artifacts that can be used to generate discussion on the similarities and differences among people from different backgrounds.

    • 5

      Collaborate with other teachers in your school on a project such as a trip to a local Mediterranean restaurant to learn about their food and how it differs from American food.

    • 6

      Invite a teacher of color, a parent or a neighbor to share their experiences with your students. Use seasonal holidays and cultural events to discuss their origins and how and why we celebrate them during a specific month .

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved