Diversity in our Classrooms

“Not all children are alike, and no one method or strategy will meet the needs of all students.”

Best Practices November 22, 2021

When we enter our classroom, we need to remember that a plethora of factors influence the behaviour of our students, including race, culture, religion, gender, age, language and socio-economic status. These factors may be manifested as weaknesses or strengths and create differences in behavior and mental development. This can create differences in learning abilities and needs. Not all children are alike, and no one method or strategy will meet the needs of all students. As educators, we must always plan our lessons carefully so that they meet the different needs and “academic taste buds” of all our students. 

Learning through Nature

One way to meet the needs of all our students is to ensure that they are connected with God, the source of wisdom and growth. In her book Education, Ellen White highlights the importance for our children learning about the world and about God in nature. She states that for students “nature presents an unfailing source of instruction and delight.” Some students have had much exposure to nature, while others have had very little. This is an opportunity for the teacher to arouse curiosity and address diversity though nature. 

Mental Connections through Bible Study

Ellen White also states that Bible study leads to mental growth: “In searching out the various parts and studying their relationship, the highest faculties of the human mind are called into intense activity. No one can engage in such study without developing mental power.” This development of mental skills is helpful for all students, and particularly for those who enter school with academic deficits. 

Worship 

Worshipping and praising God freely is useful meeting the diverse needs of students. Ellen White says, “Let there be singing in the school, and the pupils will be drawn closer to God, to their teachers, and to one another.” Worshipping God together helps students to feel valued and appreciated, which allows them to bring their diverse perspectives to school in a way that adds to the teaching and learning process.

Physical Health

Physical activity is essential for meeting the needs of all students. Since the mind and the soul find expression through the body, whatever promotes physical health promotes the development of a strong mind and a well-balanced character. Physical activity is also a universal language that promotes unity between diverse groups in the learning process.

Similarly, because diet impacts learning abilities, an improper diet can hamper learning, and we should ensure that all students have access to healthy foods so that meaningful learning can occur.

Character Building

Character building is our ultimate educational goal. As Ellen White says, “Character building is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings.” We are called to be agents for transformation, and as we embrace the diversity in our classrooms, we should remember that we are not alone, as God is there working with us. 


Suggested Reading: Reframing Diversity in Education

Author

Ian Martin

B.Ed.,Grade 8 Teacher. Presently employed at College Park Elementary School, Canada. Started is teaching career in 1993 with the Ministry of Education in Jamaica, and served as the Head of Department for Science as well as Agriculture. Ian is a graduate of Laurentian and York University.

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