Diversity

Diversity is “essential to our survival” and “a range of different things” (UNEP, 2015). It can be split into 2 subtopics: biodiversity and cultural diversity. Biodiversity  can relate to species, genetic and ecological diversity. It is important to teach biodiversity in schools because it is important to understand the importance that species have on the planet. For example, why bees are the most important pollinator of food crops. I have learned effective ways to teach children biodiversity may be food chains or studying a small ecosystem. An example of this may be the local woodland or the pond ecosystem.

Cultural diversity is an important subject to teach children within the classroom because it allows social equity. I found out from the 2011 census that Scotland is very diverse, with 138 different languages spoken in the country. We looked at recent debates in the world that be controversial, such as should a child be allowed to wear a hijab within school. We came to the conclusion that the child should definitely be allowed to wear a hijab because it is a part of their religion. Also, Scotland and Scottish schools think that it is very important to promote inclusion, therefore they should accept the child wearing a hijab. We then looked at the changes that cultural diversity has brought to Scotland. We came up with different cuisines, different food types and different religious beliefs.

Rights respecting school is an important factor of many primary schools values. Our rights are very important in the world today. It is important to have the right to education, food and shelter. Children should understand that there is a rights declaration that should be followed. I have developed knowledge that I was unaware of before, such as some professional standards that have to be met as a teacher, such as social justice and integrity.  This has been helpful in understanding the standards in cultural diversity that I should meet as a future educator.

 

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