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| Teachers should find a variety of stories that challenge stereotypes and preconceptions. |
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Classroom and Beyond
A teacher's own actions and characteristics serve as the foundation for the magic of encouraging fairness, diversity, and inclusion in the classroom.
So, it was a 'dream-come-true-moment' for me when I received the news that 'Living Conversations' project has won Blackboard Catalyst Award, 2022 for being a highly innovative skill development course with adaption of new delivery, pedagogical models, and tools for positively influencing the educational experience of students.
Eventually, my experiences as a course leader and course designer have taught me the following most crucial lessons as a teacher,
- An excellent teacher is one who enhances the learning environment via amazing enthusiasm, a genuine interest in students, and excellent abilities in both (i) Course content and (ii) Pedagogy.
- Teachers should shift roles from lecturers to inspiring facilitators who provide tools, track student growth, and motivate them to solve challenges.
- Teachers should actively seek feedback and collaborate with others in an effort to improve student outcomes.
- Teachers ought to establish classroom standards that encourage inclusivity and openness among the students. Students should believe that their voices matter and are taken seriously.
- It is important to promote understanding of and appreciation for individual differences in the classroom. Group activities support inclusion in the learning process and encourage involvement from all students.
- Guest talks and masterclasses should be explored as forums for students to openly discuss issues related to equity and diversity.
- Teachers should find a variety of stories that challenge stereotypes and preconceptions.
- In order to ensure that classroom materials are available to all students and never discriminate against anybody, teachers should employ a range of instructional formats, even if this involves modifying materials for audio, big print, or video.
- Last but not least, a teacher's own actions and characteristics serve as the foundation for the magic of encouraging fairness, diversity, and inclusion in the classroom.
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