Lesson 2: Diversity & Inclusion in the Classroom

 

Introduction 

In classrooms around the world, it is common to find students of different races or ethnic identities, genders, religions, and cultures learning together. A diverse and inclusive classroom encourages sharing, listening, and understanding so that all identities can feel accepted and included.

With a few exceptions, you will find teachers from all around the world in your OPEN course. Learning from your peers’ diverse perspectives and experiences is one of the strongest benefits of an OPEN global online course.

To further understand the key concepts of diversity and inclusion in education, take a look at the definitions below. 

What is Diversity?

Diversity is the inclusion of different identities in a group. Every person has many unique characteristics based on identities such as race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, physical or intellectual ability, religion, political beliefs, and much more. Classrooms that explore and respect diversity are more positive and enriching learning environments for all students.

What is Discrimination?

Unfortunately, people are often treated differently because of their identities. Discrimination, or the practice of treating a person or group differently, can occur among peers and teachers in the classroom. Class assignments or teaching practices can also be discriminatory if they view or treat a specific group negatively. As educators, it is our job to build respect and understanding among peers. We should also evaluate our teaching practices and materials to make sure that they are respectful and accepting of all students.

What is Equity?

Equity is the process of giving each individual what they need to be successful. Equality is when every individual is treated the same. In a classroom that focuses on equality, students might all be treated the same, but each student may not receive the specific resources and support they need to succeed academically. 

In a classroom that demonstrates equity, however, each student gets the specific resources and support they need to succeed academically. This is sometimes referred to as differentiated instruction. This might mean that each student receives help in different ways in order to reach a common goal. Just like in the graphic below, where each person gets a specific stool to help them see over the fence, each student in an inclusive classroom receives instructional support that meets their specific needs, so that everyone can learn together.  

What is an Inclusive Classroom?

Inclusive classrooms are learning environments where all students learn together, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. Inclusive classrooms respect learners’ diversity and demonstrate equity. 

Teaching methods and materials must be accessible so that all students are included. Accessible materials might look different for each student - for example, a student learning virtually might not have the internet connectivity to watch a long recorded video. To make this video accessible, instructors could include a downloadable script of the video that students can read offline. Instructors could also use closed captions so that learners who are deaf or hard of hearing can watch the video while reading the words spoken at the bottom of the screen. Allowing accommodations, small changes made to the way that an assignment is shared by the teacher or completed by the student, helps to create an equitable learning environment for all students!

 

Another form of Accommodation is Assistive technology (AT), this includes any items, tools or services that help make resources equally accessible for all, regardless of differing abilities. This term was defined by the U.S. Disabilities Act of 1988, as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether  acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities" (P.L. 100-407).Current trends in Universal Design are working to make these types of technologies available and accessible by default.  An example of where such assistive technology can be helpful for everyone is screen readers.

     

Diversity and Inclusion in the OPEN Program

The OPEN Program strives to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. As a participant of this program, you will have the chance to learn from your classmates’ diverse perspectives, which will help make you a better educator. Studies have shown that students in diverse and inclusive classrooms have stronger problem solving and critical thinking skills, a more positive self-image, and greater respect for others. They are also more prepared to enter the workforce and contribute to their communities. As an educator, we hope this experience helps you create a classroom environment where all students feel valued, respected, and engaged in the process of learning!

 

(Source: from an OPEN's course)