The variety between the backgrounds of students is prevalent now more than ever before. As teachers, admitting and accommodating these facts is now an essential part of successful teaching. Students must be able to interact with all kinds of people throughout their future careers, and the learning the ability to do so begins in the classroom. Creating a safe, communal atmosphere is a crucial step in this process. Students must feel protected in asking true questions and deciding their own life philosophies. Then, students will naturally bring in their own perspectives to enhance learning for all. Truly, we learn from those that are most different from us. As teachers, we must bring this idea to life in the classroom.
Demonstrating that student work is valued in all forms is another way to reach a diverse group of students. Knowing that doing their best is what is truly expected of them motivates students. If they are afraid of failing, they are less likely to give their best effort. Valuing their work shows that we value how they learn, and also shows that we appreciate their thoughts on their own education. Allowing choice within classroom assignments is another strategy to working with diverse learning. It allows students to take charge of their own learning and creates an individual plan for each of them. Freire is a scholar famous for his discussion of “banking education.” In order to avoid simply “depositing” information into the minds of our students, we must hold them accountable and allow them some control and responsibility over what they are learning. This is what will lead to true critical thinking among diverse learners.
Finally, being conscious of cultural differences is a way to let students see that you care about them on an individual basis. By creating assignments that encourage students to bring their background into their work, they are not only motivated but also learning complex thinking in making relevant connections. This type of learning is what teachers must be conscious of, encourage, and positively reinforce on a daily basis.
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Bridging the Gaps 