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There are approximately 7,000 languages, 193 countries, and a population numbering into the billions. It is, therefore, no exaggeration to state that immense diversity shapes our globe. In a world with sharp contrasts in social class, language, nationality, culture, religion, and politics; there is an acute need to show impartiality and sensitivity within the classroom environment. We will consider a key area that requires sensitivity within the classroom that is the cultural diversity of the students we teach. An unbiased, impartial and respectful classroom environment starts with the teacher’s attitude. A good teacher does not judge people according to their culture, religion, social standing or race. When a teacher works hard to develop love and respect toward all cultures, he will be in a better position mentally and emotionally to teach in a culturally sensitive manner. Each student is different in learning ability, social class, and culture. To assist and help the student to learn, adequate time and personal interest are needed to tactfully understand the student’s cultural background. When a teacher is aware of the student’s background and especially their parent’s culture, the teacher will be in a better position to engage and teach the student with respect and impartiality. In many lands, the secular law mandates that educational staff treat all within the work environment, including the classroom, with respect for cultural, ethnic and religious differences. For example, the NSW Department of Education of Australia has an Anti-Racism Policy which states: “All teaching and non-teaching staff contribute to the eradication of racism by promoting acceptance of Australia's cultural, linguistic and religious diversity, challenging prejudiced attitudes and ensuring that sanctions are applied against racist and discriminatory behaviours.” This policy is based on the Multicultural NSW Act which enforces cultural sensitivity in Australian society. However, whether mandated by written law or school policy, every student should be confident that they will be respected and treated fairly. This an inalienable human right and thus teachers must work hard to cater for all cultures as they engage in their role. Displaying and teaching with cultural sensitivity creates long-lasting and positive results for both the student and the teacher. When a teacher helps their students feel respected and proud of their culture, it creates a classroom environment conducive for learning. Students will participate more freely and openly. Also, they have confidence that all students are valued and treated equally. This can build their trust in the teacher and the education system in which they are enrolled. The teacher also reaps positive results for displaying cultural sensitivity. He gains the trust and respect of his students which has a follow-on effect which is that the students can progress and learn at a faster rate. The classroom environment can also be impacted in a positive way, in that there are fewer disruptions and an overall increase in student participation. This can reduce the amount of stress on the teacher and the effort needed to be put forth in elicitation. The reasons considered in this summative task have outlined how the attitude and research of the teacher and the laws and policies provide a framework to teach each student with respect and cultural sensitivity. The results discussed further reinforce the importance of applying impartially within the classroom. Thus, each teacher should sit back and carefully reflect: ‘Am I teaching in a culturally sensitive manner?’.
