Inclusive Education by Dr. Aswathy Rajan
A teacher’s role is to lead by example. By being mindful of the words and terms that you use, during the teaching-learning process, you can set a good example for the children in your class. As a teacher, we must teach tolerance to our children because tolerance is constantly being challenged in a society where it is valued.
Tolerance plays an important role in promoting social equality at school. In addition to showing students how to interact with others, it also teaches them how to learn from people who are different from themselves.
Tolerance is “recognizing and respecting other’s beliefs and practices without making a negative impact about it” (Neufeldt 1994).
Tolerance is important in schools because it helps create an environment where all students feel welcome and respected. When students feel respected and valued, they are more likely to be engaged in learning and to feel positive about themselves and their peers. Tolerance also helps prevent bullying and other forms of harassment and discrimination.
Here are a few ways to teach tolerance in the classroom :
For elementary school: Ask them to dress up in their traditional costumes, bring one of their favorite family foods, or sing in their mother tongue. By this, you can explain that everyone is different and that’s what makes the world an interesting place.
For middle school: Children learn tolerance education by being exposed to a variety of perspectives and experiences. To accomplish this, a variety of activities, such as reading, debates/declamations, and participating in cultural events, can be carried out.
If you observe intolerance in class, intervene and explain the importance of tolerance. Your child should be encouraged to interact with others in a healthy way. Positive comments can influence and reinforce their behavior.
Inherent worth: Every individual
has inherent worth and dignity simply by virtue of being human. Regardless of
their background, beliefs, or circumstances, all human beings deserve to be
treated with respect and kindness.
Diversity and uniqueness: Each
person brings a unique set of experiences, perspectives, and talents to the
table. Valuing every individual means embracing this diversity and recognizing
that it enriches our communities and enables us to learn from one another.
Empathy and compassion: Valuing
every individual cultivates empathy and compassion. When we see others as
valuable and worthy, we are more likely to understand and support them during
challenging times.
Building stronger relationships: When we value and respect others, we build stronger and more meaningful relationships. Trust and mutual respect are the foundation of positive interactions and collaborations.
Fostering inclusivity: Valuing
every individual creates an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome
and accepted. This inclusivity leads to greater social cohesion and a sense of
belonging for all members of a community.
Personal growth: By recognizing
the value of every individual, we promote personal growth and self-esteem.
Feeling valued and respected boosts confidence and motivates people to strive
for their goals.
Conflict resolution: When we
value individuals, we are more likely to engage in constructive dialogue and
find solutions to conflicts peacefully. This approach promotes understanding
and cooperation, reducing animosity and hostility.
Human rights and social justice:
Valuing every individual is at the core of human rights and social justice. It
means advocating for equal opportunities, fair treatment, and protection from
discrimination for all individuals.
Positive impact on mental
health: Feeling valued and appreciated positively impacts mental health and
well-being. Knowing that one's presence and contributions matter can lead to
increased happiness and a sense of purpose.
A better world: Ultimately,
valuing every individual contributes to building a better world. It paves the
way for a society where empathy, respect, and cooperation thrive, leading to a
more harmonious and fulfilling existence for everyone.
In conclusion, valuing every
individual is not just an act of kindness; it is a foundation for creating a
compassionate, inclusive, and equitable society that benefits us all. It is a
mindset that recognizes the beauty and potential in every human being and
empowers us to make positive contributions to the lives of others.
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