Characteristics of an Inclusive Classroom

An inclusive classroom is a place where diversity has value. Teachers who strive to create an inclusive classroom understand that students come from a variety of backgrounds. Classrooms can mix children with many differences, including physical and psychological abilities, gender, culture, language, race, age, sexual orientation and religion. Giving students an opportunity to learn about diversity in the classroom prepares them to enter a diverse workforce later on.

Race

Increasing racial and cultural awareness is an important characteristic for an inclusive classroom. A classroom with small children that includes toys and materials representative of the diversity of the children shows inclusiveness. For example, classrooms where there are only white dolls or posters with white children promote stereotypes and negative messages about race. For classrooms with older students, the instructor can address issues of diversity directly, as they arise in classroom discussion or in course content. For instance, textbooks sometimes gloss over important historical issues related to race. Teachers can offer students alternative sources of information that present a more balanced scope of knowledge and discuss the racism inherent in these omissions.

Gender

Creating a classroom that is inclusive of gender can be challenging for teachers. For instance, male students who may be more aggressive in classroom discussions than their female peers often present a challenge to teachers. A teacher who is working for inclusion is aware of these dynamics and works to help all of her students find a way to engage that is meaning for them, while tempering dynamics so that everyone has a voice. Teachers can use small groups and presentations to give all students a chance to be heard.

Teachers can also discuss gender stereotypes as they arise. For instance, if a mathematics textbook only presents men in positions of authority in its word problems, this may lead to a discussion about the leadership qualities of women.

Sexual Orientation

Teachers can also create environments that are inclusive to students who are gay, lesbian or bisexual. Teachers can discuss the importance of respect and the dangers of bullying that many gay, lesbian and bisexual students face. Teachers can discuss with students what constitutes "hate speech," how this can hurt others and model an environment of inclusion and respect for all sexual orientations in the classroom.

Ability

Teachers interested in creating an inclusive environment make sure that their classrooms are set up to provide physical access to students with disabilities. Teachers can also use diverse teaching methods and promote inclusively in their teaching styles. For instance, instead of teaching through traditional lectures, a teacher can use group activities, hands-on activities, Internet and technology based learning, fieldwork or field trips and guest speakers. These activities provide opportunities for all types of learners, including students with learning or processing challenges. Teachers can also provide written supplements to their lectures.

Teachers can also talk to students and make sure that they are aware that help is available if physical or learning disabilities affect their learning or participation in the classroom.

References

• Valencia Community College: Creating An Inclusive Learning Environment
• Teachers of Color: Incorporating Cultural Diversity in the Classroom
• PBS: Activities that Promote Racial and Cultural Awareness
• Seton Hall University: Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment
• Carnegie Mellon University: Create an Inclusive Learning Environment
• Teaching Tolerance: Culture in the Classroom

Resources

• Harvard.edu: Sensitivity to Women in the Contemporary Classroom
• GLSEN: Back-To-School Guide for Creating LGBT Inclusive Environments
• The Louisiana Weekly: Integrating culture necessary for high school equity, group says