You’ve probably heard the saying, “ Everyone is unique”. Though it sounds like a cliché, one cannot escape from the truth in it. As facilitators of learning, teachers are tasked to consider the individual differences among students in planning for a successful teaching-learning process.
But how are the teachers going to face this challenge? There may be students having different cultural background, different language abilities, different attitudes, behaviours and learning styles. Also, the teachers need to consider the multiple intelligences of the students, for a short- tempered teachers, this could be a hassle. But a reflective teacher may see may see a diverse classroom as an exciting and challenging place to learn not just for his/her students, but for herself as well.
To deal with diversity in the classroom, teachers must first identify students’ own attitudes. This will help teachers to be more sensitive and thoughtful towards students who are really different. Moreover, teachers need to build relationships in the classroom. Students must know that teachers care about them despite the differences. Of course, teachers must also serve as role models for students to appreciate diversity among their peers. In short, teachers must promote a respectful learning environment. Each student must be respected for who he/ she is.
Knowing that students have different learning styles, various strategies may be employed within the classroom to promote better learning.
Group activities could help since these improves interpersonal relationships among students. They can also learn from each other considering that learning is a collaborative process.
All students should be encouraged to participate in discussions. Teachers can conduct lots of activities which everyone can enjoy. It is better if the students learn while playing. However, there is a need to respect their differences. Activities must therefore cater all the multiple intelligences among learners. So teachers must be creative and inventive in creating effective learning materials and learning strategies.
Most importantly, an environment that is comfortable and non-threatening facilitates diversity. This gives students a sense of belonging and promotes learning.
Teaching is indeed a great challenge, teachers are expected to be understanding, long- tempered, patient, loving and caring in order to address the needs of each learner. Differences must not be ignored, respect and celebrate diversity!
By: Baby Ciela Marie V. Mendi | Teacher III | Morong Elementary School | Morong, Bataan
