TUTORIAL 4: PEER REVIEW REFLECTION ON DIVERSE LEARNING

Can you share examples of diversity within a learning environment and how these differences
impact students learning experiences?

What is Diversity in the classroom?

Diversity in the classroom refers to differences in social identities, encompassing a person’s age, race,
socioeconomic status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, and nationality,
all of which contribute to their social identity. According to (Kite & Clark, 2022), our identities are
complex and multifaceted, intersecting and overlapping with each other. Additionally, various aspects of
our identities are subject to change over time.

Diversity in Papua New Guinea

In today’s diverse and interconnected world, cultural sensitivity has become an essential aspect of
education. Classrooms are becoming increasingly diverse, with students coming from various cultural
backgrounds. This diversity enriches the learning environment, providing students with a broader
perspective and preparing them for a multicultural society. As classrooms become increasingly
multicultural, teachers must promote an environment that respects and values the diversity of their
students (Swallow, 2020). Teachers must recognize and understand the various cultural differences
present among their students to create inclusive classrooms that foster mutual respect, empathy, and
appreciation for different cultures by understanding and embracing cultural sensitivity.

Papua New Guinea is a Melanesian country and we are still struggling to adapt fully to westernization.
According to (L. Johnson, 1993), the education system in Papua New Guinea isn't inclusive and diverse
because it's hard for everyone to get into school and the quality of education isn't the same for everyone.
There are a few reasons for this. First, the education system itself has limitations because of different
social, cultural, political, economic, historical, and geographical factors. Second, some people who should
be involved in education, like parents or community members, feel left out. Third, poverty makes it hard
for some kids to go to school. Finally, some people don't want certain groups of students to go to school
(Fanu & Malpo, 2022). So, the problem with lacking in diversity and inclusivity in education comes from
a mix of things that stop people from getting into school and things that make it hard for everyone to get
the same quality of education.

Personal Experiences of Diversity

During my eleventh grade at Aiyura National High School, which is renowned for excellence, students
from across the country are chosen to attend. I recall that my English teacher assigned us weekend tasks
to compose songs, poems, or stories about our legends and customs, which we presented in front of the
class every Monday morning. He explained that this practice not only improved our grammar skills for
upcoming English exams but also enriched our understanding of culture and tradition, preventing their
disappearances. Through this approach, we gained exposure to diverse cultures within the confines of the

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classroom. For instance, one classmate, initially aloof towards girls, Afterward, during his presentation,
he explained that he was hesitant because of his cultural beliefs. This helps us understand him better and
gives us the opportunity to apologize for our previous misunderstanding of him being distant from us,
which makes us feel resentment towards him. Additionally, there was a student in our class nicknamed
"Question Box" for her habit of frequently asking questions across subjects, despite struggling
academically. Despite the teacher's oversight, we supported her in her academic growth. Also, we
supported each other as we moved from grade 11 to 12. Reflecting back makes me realized that, every
student has different ways of learning so, as a teacher we must makes sure we understand and consider
them when preparing our lesson plans. Make sure we create an environment of diversity and a sense of
inclusivity in our classroom.

Diversity in Teachers and Students

During my schooling from primary to university, I have observed a connection between teachers and
students, especially when they share the same ethnic group. According to (Konan, Paul & Chatard,
Armand & Selimbegovic, Leila & Gabriel, Mugny, 2010), Students with teachers of the same racial or
ethnic background tend to experience improved test scores, better course grades, higher attendance rates,
increased likelihood of being selected for gifted programs, greater success in exams, and a higher
intention to enroll in college. However, it's important to note that teachers may inadvertently become
mentors to students or show favoritism towards them. Therefore, diversifying our educational system
should involve increasing the representation of teachers from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds to
ensure fairness in the classroom (Plessis, Pierre & Bisschoff, Tom. (2007). Every student deserves
equitable treatment and opportunities for learning. According to (Yahya, 2022), the strengths of cultural
diversity in the classroom are; Prejudice reduction, Empathy development, gaining new experiences,
Increasing Cultural interaction, Knowledge construction, Creativity. And the weaknesses are; Language
differences, Changing existing biases, Lack of communication, Culture clash. Difficulty in satisfying
different needs. Despites the weaknesses of diversity, it is our job as teachers to make our classrooms a
safe and inclusive environment for our students, so we must never forget that.

To conclude, it is important for us as teachers to know and understand diversity before implementing it.
Diversity in the classroom refers to the variety of differences among students, such as their cultural
backgrounds, learning styles, abilities, and experiences. It encompasses the unique characteristics and
perspectives that each student brings to the learning environment. Embracing diversity in the classroom
promotes inclusivity, fosters understanding of different viewpoints, and enhances the overall educational
experience for all students, including teachers. Upon closer examination, God himself exemplifies
diversity, loving all sorts of people, understanding, and providing for our specific needs. Therefore,
diversity is crucial in the classroom and in all aspects of life.

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 Reference Page

Erbaş, Yahya. (2022). Cultural Diversity Through the Lenses of Teachers: A SWOT Analysis.
Educational Policy Analysis and Strategic Research. 17. 2022. 10.29329/epasr.2022.478.3.

Kite, M. E., & Clark, P. (2022). Diversity in the classroom: Understanding social identities.

Konan, Paul & Chatard, Armand & Selimbegovic, Leila & Gabriel, Mugny. (2010). Cultural Diversity in
the Classroom and its Effects on Academic Performance: A Cross-National Perspective. Social
Psychology. 41. 230-237. 10.1027/1864-9335/a000031.

Plessis, Pierre & Bisschoff, Tom. (2007). Diversity and complexity in the classroom: valuing racial and
cultural diversity. Educational Research and Review. 2. 245-254.

Swallow, Deborah. (2020). Managing diversity in the classroom. Training, Language and Culture. 4. 67-
80. 10.22363/2521-442X-2020-4-2-67-80.

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