How technology can support diversity in the classroom

Diversity, in line with Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, is the situation of getting or being composed of differing components, particularly the inclusion of individuals of various races, cultures, and many others. in a gaggle or group.

As an educator, with over 17 years of expertise, I’ve heard the phrase diversity used in numerous contexts all through my profession. However, over the final 16 months or so, the significance of diversity–and particularly inclusion–has been highlighted to Americans throughout the nation, in very seen, and typically unsettling methods.

Throughout my profession, I’ve taught a wide range of grades from 1st grade to sixth grade ELA in a number of states and college districts. Currently, I’m the Gifted and Talented Specialist for River Trail Elementary in Upstate South Carolina.  In this position, I’ve taken a contemporary have a look at how I’m serving to to focus on the energy of diversity in the classroom and construct a extra inclusive studying setting–significantly in the STEM fields–in which all learners can see themselves as they put together for all times past commencement.

Over the previous few months, I’ve linked with colleagues from my previous to gather actionable methods lecturers can use to support higher diversity in the classroom and in their classes, together with extra inclusive studying environments. Here are a few of the greatest methods I’ve collected:

Empower college students to information the dialog with dynamic digital content material: Like most lecturers, I’m afforded entry to many sources. My first selection, when deciding on content material, is the Discovery Education platform, which was lately up to date with a number of nice new options. Fort Mill Schools, the district I presently work in, has an in depth relationship with Discovery Education (DE)  and the many merchandise they’ve obtainable.