Recognizing that teachers are human beings who bring their own experiences regarding race, language, gender, socioeconomic status, family structure, sexual orientation, political ideology, and more to the classroom, Exploring Diversity in Education challenges future educators to look inward and engage in self-reflection to better understand their own personal beliefs and identities. Equipped with this information, readers can begin to locate their blind spots and biases, nuances that can affect their teaching and interactions with students. The text helps readers develop greater cultural and self-awareness so they can competently work in schools and communities with evolving demographics.
The text is divided into 10 chapters, which feature an introduction, an engaging reading on a specific topic, and For Your Consideration section that provides readers with thought-provoking questions and reflection opportunities. Opening chapters discuss how knowing oneself can help them know others, the dynamics of privilege, the impact of poverty on learning and education, and religious diversity in schools. Additional readings address linguistically diverse learning, policies and practices that impact immigrant students, and issues related to gender and racial hierarchy. The final chapters explore what multicultural education looks like in action and the importance of incorporating social justice in curriculum.
Designed to prepare the teachers of today and tomorrow connect in meaningful ways with their students, Exploring Diversity in Education is an essential text for courses and programs in teacher education.
