Case studies: Diversity in the classroom 3
- rhbarnes
- Dec 9, 2021
- 2 min read
Overview: In today's world, diversity in classrooms is a norm rather than an exception. As a result, teachers need to differentiate instruction to meet the individual needs of students based on their gender, ethnic and racial backgrounds, socioeconomic status, native language, talents, differing abilities, and disabilities. Though our classrooms may appear homogeneous, we need to take the time to analyze the diversity in our classrooms so we can provide adequate support and instruction. We need to remember each student brings unique experience, strengths, and ideas to our classrooms.
Some students stand out in my memory due to the unique experiences and strengths they've brought to my classrooms. Here is one that holds a special place in my heart.
Subject:
Student (S) is an adult student who has started a BA in architecture but quit due to lack of interest. They are excellent in English and are in Upper-intermediate level courses. They are very enthusiastic about English and take every opportunity to practice speaking.
Issues:
S’s enthusiasm is always bursting out.
They frequently interrupt or talk over other students to answer questions or provide comments.
S dominates discussion time and other students don’t get much if any time to participate in class.
S appears unaware of their affect on other students or the class as a whole.
Questions to consider:
How to get all students equal talk time in discussions?
How to get S to wait to be called on instead of interrupting or talking over others?
How can this be accomplished without negatively impacting S’s enthusiasm?
Performance outcome:
Spoke with S about helping to manage class discussions to ensure everyone got a fair amount of time to talk and to encourage less talkative students to speak up.
Explained to S that he is more knowledgeable about most things than his classmates and some are feeling intimidated. Advised that he let others talk first then he can bring up anything that was forgotten to help everyone.
Calmly talking with S and working on redirecting his energies did nothing to dampen his enthusiasm. In fact, he went on to become a teacher himself and he is now one of the most popular and effective teachers at my school.
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