Whatever age group you teach, creating an inclusive classroom is essential for building a positive and supportive learning environment. When students feel safe and valued, they are more likely to participate and engage in lessons.
Why make your classroom more inclusive?
An inclusive classroom helps build rapport with students and provides a safe space where everyone feels welcome, regardless of age, gender, religion, race or background. It shows students that they are valued individuals who contribute to the classroom and lessons in a meaningful way. This encouragement can boost their confidence, show that their contributions are valuable, and provide a classroom environment reflecting the wider world.
So, how to promote equity and inclusion in the classroom?
Ways to make your classroom more inclusive
1. Challenge traditional ideas
- Consider introducing topics that break traditional moulds, such as different family structures, economic situations and religious beliefs. This can be particularly important if you teach in an environment where all your students share similarities, such as race, beliefs or background. By doing this, you can ensure students understand the global community and are culturally and emotionally aware.
- Use models, such as famous people or videos of real-life individuals, to challenge assumptions and teach respect for diversity. This helps students understand and appreciate different perspectives.
- Pay attention to the materials you’re using, and supplement where necessary to ensure different perspectives. If your coursebook doesn’t feel particularly representative, use authentic materials from a variety of sources, and create discussion activities around the diversity and inclusion shown in these materials.
2. Encourage open discussion
- Have a question of the day or question of the week where students can share their opinions and engage in debates. This activity allows students to compare their personal situations with those of people from different backgrounds. For example, discuss what it might be like to grow up with same-sex parents or with a disability. These discussions can broaden students’ horizons and foster empathy.
3. Highlight individual differences and skills
- Recognise and celebrate the unique skills and qualities of each student. Encourage your students to praise each other for their strengths, not just academically but also in terms of soft skills such as leadership, collaboration and communication.
- In multicultural classes, have students share their experiences and celebrate differences so students can learn from each other and broaden their knowledge.
- Acknowledge students who make others feel included, share materials, encourage positivity and demonstrate the ability to empathize with others. Highlighting these qualities helps students appreciate and value their classmates’ diverse contributions.
4. Teach inclusive language
- Teach students inclusive language that they can use outside of the classroom in the real world. That way, they can use the correct terminology for specific situations.
- You can find out more information about inclusive language on the following sites:
Promoting equity and inclusion in the classroom is crucial for creating a welcoming and engaging learning environment and helping students feel valued and respected. It reflects the world we live in and also makes sure students can empathise and communicate effectively outside of the classroom.
Do you have any other ideas for how to promote equity and inclusion in the classroom? Share your ideas below!