Diversity And Responsiveness

Culture evolves over time in response to adaptive challenges. One result of this evolutionary process is beliefs and practices that help us adapt to persistent as well as changing circumstances. These beliefs and practices are organized as models or schema about how things work, what is ideal, and which practices are proper and help individuals or groups survive and prosper. Cultural models are so familiar that their functions and effects are often unseen, invisible, unnoticed. The evidence of their workings are often most apparent in everyday routines in communities, homes, work places, play yards, and schools (McIntyre, 2000). What activities are carried out, why they are valued, who should participate, and the rules of interaction are coded
One of the primary goals of education is to show students different points of view and encourage them to evaluate their own beliefs. It is the job of a leader and educator to help students begin to appreciate the number of situations that can be understood only by comparing several interpretations, and help them appreciate how one's premises, observations, and interpretations are influenced by social identity and background. It is important for an educator to make it clear that all comments are values. Students need to feel free to voice an opinion and empowered to defend it. All students are able to focus on and enjoy learning more when the school and classroom make them feel safe-comfortable with themselves and with their surroundings. Educators must try not to allow their own difference of opinion prevent communication and debate, and be able to step in if some students seem to be ignoring the viewpoints of
When an educator enters the classroom, he or she should, or course, know the materials and the learning objectives. Being teachers, we must have a clear vision of the itinerary to keep the discussion on track and make use of extra motivation by preparing the students with a brief review. Ms. Shane stated in our interview that a great activity to begin integrating diversity is called "Human Differences." This activity is an easy three-step process. The students will:
1. Interview the other people in their group. Find out their ethnic and cultural background. Ask them what they feel are important parts of their culture.
2. Use the fact books and other resources to find out information about these areas where their families (ancestors) were from. Include information on location, size, ethnic groups, beliefs, literacy rate, climate, and what else you feel is relevant.
3. Compare (not judge) the various cultures. How are they alike? How are they different? Write a 1-2 paragraph summary of what was