Diversity Statement

Diversity: the art of thinking independently together an eloquent

quote from Malcolm Forbes, founder of Forbes Magazine. This quote is the
central theme to my cultural philosophy for teaching. My teaching philosophy
is simple: an effective learning community is developed through diversity,
understanding, communication and cooperation. Diversity is all around us in
different shapes and forms. The differences can be similar or very different
from each other, but regardless they bring new ideas and change in thought.
Change is often feared, but without change life would be static and
unchallenging. Diversity is a life force that can enable us to adapt, grow and
develop. It is a force that should bring us together in sharing rather than
break us apart in fear.
The art of thinking independently together at first seems to be
contradictory statement but when slowly broken down its meaning is very
powerful. Each person thinks differently and in a group/ classroom, these
differences are important to acknowledge. Sharing thought processes brings
unity and better understanding within the group and then beyond. As shown
in the definition of the word together. According to the Merriam Webster
dictionary, together means: with each other and/or in or into a unified or
coherent structure or an integrated whole. These meanings suggest that
together is more than a blending of a group into one mass but the coexistent of different elements and/or people into an integrated and unified
group. Therefore in my diversity statement I have focused on working

together or rather with each other in a learning community where I will

challenge my students to learn through and by each other.
What does a learning community mean and how will it be achieved in
my classroom? A learning community in my eyes should provide a safe
interactive environment that creates avenues to share and learn from
different cultural perspectives and enhances the community shared by the
group. In order to achieve this goal it is imperative that the environment is
comfortable for students to share their ideas and views. They must
understanding that similarities and differences are valued and will not be
judged but can be discussed. Giving students an opportunity and
environment to say that they do not understand something is an essential
tool to reach students. Productive discussions are important and I, as the
teacher, have the responsibility to facilitate and guide respectful discussions.
It is my responsibility to model to the class the importance of welcoming
different opinions and being able to openly and respectfully discuss these
varied opinions.
In addition allowing a culturally flexible curriculum into the classroom
will help establish a safe learning environment. It is important for students
to share their stories and identify themselves with the learning process.
Providing students an avenue of self-expression not only helps them have
some control over their learning process but helps me understand their
perspectives and how I must change my teaching style to adjust to each
students particular learning strengths. In addition I encourage students

families to share their cultural history with me and the class. I must learn
from the students and their families just as much as they need to learn from
me. It is a co-existent community that if properly balance can increase the
learning from student, family and teacher.
Collaboration within the classroom is another important element in an
effective learning
community. In order for students to learn about each other they must
interact. Group learning provides interaction and helps students appreciate
how differences can be assets. Teamwork helps bridge communication gaps
and teaches cooperation and compromise. It is essential students are taught
how to work in groups and develop communication skills to understand and
work with all types of people.
An additional element that I will introduce to my students is community
awareness, expanding the learning community into a new dimension. It is
important to show students that they are part of a larger world where they
can become involved by being supportive and engaged in their community.
Encouraging them and showing them how they can contribute and enhance
their community will help them develop their own ideas on helping their
community. I will try and explore issues and create discussions so students
can practice and learn how to use their own voices to defend their ideas.
Expanding their learning outside the classroom will help them extend the
skills they have learned into real life practical applications. In this way

students will gain confidence in their beliefs and understanding the

importance of supporting each other and their community. I will encourage
students to pursue their goals by being involved myself with my school and
community.
While the elements I have stated are very important to achieving a
learning community perhaps the most importance element is to understand
my own views. I acknowledge that differences exist. I understand that
students are personally effected by opportunity, self-esteem and

environment. By understanding these I will be better able to provide

empathy and support; giving students the optimal environment to be ready
to learn. I embrace the idea that
the art of thinking independently together encompasses the entire learning
community including the teacher. Diversity is an asset which creates a
strong, supportive and far-reaching learning environment.