Teaching for Diversity

10 Essential Components

Restructuring Teacher Education for Diversity

Teacher educators use what students already know to teach new concepts, including new cultures.
Teacher education curriculum allows student teachers to learn about the histories and cultures of the groups in their schools.
Teacher educators recognize that many student teachers are apprehensive about teaching minority students, because their cultures, languages, and behaviors are unfamiliar to the prospective teachers.
Teacher preparation program develops the teacher candidate's appreciation of other languages and dialects.
Teacher preparation program teaches that all students, regardless of race or ethnic background, have diverse learning styles; teachers need diverse teaching styles.
Student teachers learn how to communicate with parents and members of the community at large.
Teacher educators model and train prospective teachers to practice an ethic of caring.
Student teaching experiences and internships are conducted only in excellent schools.
Teacher educators train prospective teachers to be change agents.
Teacher education faculties include people of color.