Diversity is everything that makes people different from each other. This includes many different factors: race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, ability, age, religious belief, or political conviction. All these factors work together to inform how students (and teachers, and everyone else) encounter the world.
The University of Rhode Island defines diversity in the classroom as “understanding each student brings unique experiences, strengths, and ideas to our classroom … Diversity is the exploration and incorporation of these differences to enrich learning in our classroom.”
A school’s culture in which people embrace diversity in the classroom can positively impact on the school community. When this happens, a school community creates a safe, supportive and purposeful environment for students and staff which allows students to grow — academically, personally and socially.
In an increasingly diverse and multicultural society there is a possibility of a fragmented society, the ability to connect with peers, co-workers and neighbours with diverse backgrounds and abilities is invaluable. Diversity improves critical-thinking skills, builds empathy and encourages students to think differently.
“Decades of research by organisational scientists, psychologists, sociologists, economists and demographers show that socially diverse groups (that is, those with a diversity of race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation) are more innovative than homogeneous groups.” The same article goes on to point out that even the appearance of diversity (and with it, the suggestion that different opinions exist) makes us change how we approach issues.
Students are no exception to this rule. Diversity in the classroom helps students develop social awareness which helps them appreciate different perspectives and draw stronger conclusions. Challenging students to consider different perspectives can also teach them how to interact with their peers on a social level and equip them with skills they’ll use for the rest of their lives.
Activity:
List what you consider to be the most important arguments in favour of diversity in the classroom. Write 7 sentences, each as a bullet point, to succinctly make your case. Pitch the vocabulary at secondary school student level.
Reflect also on our legal responsibility. Article 14 – Right to education | European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights