How to Teach a Diverse Classroom of Students
Each year, teachers are faced with the overwhelming task of teaching
to a classroom of 20-30 individual students, each with their own
learning styles, interests and abilities. Optimal supply
learning for such a diverse group can seem overwhelming. Objective,
there is a simple approach that can be used that will allow
for all students to be successful, and that approach is simply to use
variety and choice. This approach not only addresses the
multiple learning styles of students, but also helps to make
they independent learners.
While the classroom still needs to have structure (routines,
rules, procedures), providing variety within that structure
The environment can help provide optimal learning for all.
students. Using a variety of educational approaches such as
readings, PowerPoint presentations, query-based instruction,
hands-on experiments, project / problem-based learning, or
computer-assisted instruction, not only addresses the various
learning styles of students in the classroom, but it can help
students become more flexible in their learning. Most of the students
have a preferred learning style, however this does not mean
they strictly depend on that style to learn. Are
also comfortable and able to learn from various other styles
as well as. Expose students to a wide variety of learning styles.
It will allow them to become more flexible learners.
It is also beneficial to vary the input devices used and the
resources available in the classroom. Children have a wide
variety of preferred learning devices, so
available as possible provides this diversity. For instance,
When presenting information, use audio (songs, speeches,
interviews, etc.), videos, books, posters, practices
manipulators, food and odors. Technology has made available
a wide range of resources, such as PowerPoint presentations,
live video broadcasts, chats and communication. Powerpoint
Presentations are a great way to present information using a
mix of audio, video, animations (movement) and text. Thesis
Presentations can also be made available to students through the
computer to review at their own pace. The Internet /
Computers also offer interactive learning activities that combine
movement, images and sounds, such as virtual science
experiments. These allow students to conduct experiments
It was never thought possible before due to danger or lack of equipment.
Virtual experiments can be found at http://www.explorelearning.com.
Previous exposure to the material also helps in learning. How much more
the students who are familiar with a topic, the easier it is for newcomers
learn to happen. Therefore, providing students with a
variety of pre-exposure materials can better prepare them for
new learning units. For example, monthly calendars that list
upcoming topics, a classroom website with links to various
websites related to upcoming topics, books, magazines, maps,
Posters, computer software, and manipulatives can be provided.
for students to surf at their leisure. Providing a variety of
materials take into consideration the learning preferences of
all the students.
Novelty can be used to attract and hold students’ attention.
Usually people only pay attention to things that have value or
things that are personally meaningful. Therefore, relating
learn about your students’ real life experiences or interests
can capture and hold their attention. “Surprise them” with an unusual
noise, experiment, video, song, etc. You can also present them
with a problem or project that relates to your real world in
to get your attention and interest at the beginning of
unites. Topics such as environmental problems, problems with
long lines at the cafeteria, designing the perfect playground,
planning a field trip within budget, local traffic problems,
etc. all can be considered. Make learning meaningful,
relevant and interesting to your students not only earns your
initial attention, but maintains it throughout the lesson.
When planning your lessons, it is beneficial to try to include how
many of Gardner’s senses and / or multiple intelligences
(verbal-linguistic, logical-mathematical, kinesthetic, visual-
spatial, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalistic)
it’s possible. You can do this using a variety of activities
in their plans, such as songs, games, experiments, excursions,
real world experiences, interviews, guest speakers, physicists
movement / exercise, small group activities, individual activities,
couple activities, cooking / food / snacks, hands-on experiences,
etc. Offering a variety of activities will allow students to
all skill levels to be successful.
Not only do students have diverse learning styles, they also vary
biocognitive cycles as well. Some students learn best in the
in the morning, some in the afternoon. Therefore, have a flexibility
Classroom hours can compensate for these differences. Too,
vary the times and types of evaluations you can give to all students
a good chance to show your true skills.
Where appropriate, it is beneficial to give students options in
activities and evaluations. This provides students
opportunities to show their individual talents and can help
also in classroom management. If students are constantly
dictated and without voice or choice, they can grow
resentful and “act.” Provide a variety of classrooms
activities for students to choose during
unstructured times, give them various projects like posters,
PowerPoint presentations, reports, interviews, videos, brochures,
etc. to choose from when assessing your knowledge. Donation
Students’ choice provides them with a sense of empowerment about
their learning and can help them decide which learning styles
and assessments work better for them, thus helping them to become
more responsible for their own learning.
It would be a pretty boring world if all students were the same.
Diversity makes the classroom more interesting and exciting.
Teachers must honor and respect the uniqueness of each
student by offering variety and choice in their classrooms. No
this will only address the diverse needs of students, but
it will also help them become independent learners.
After all, isn’t that the goal of education?
