Sylvia Said:

Do different ethnicities learn differently?

We Answered:

I don't think that the question is focusing on different learning abilities. The question needs you to concentrate on how to deliver equal education to all the children, based on their capabilities and regardless of their origins, while understanding that each person learns in a different manner Acknowledging that we are not one huge monolithic block, but a multifaceted group of different experiences and cultures (and yes, even different learning cultures) is the first step that will ofcourse create a behive of controversy. Most people would see the recognition of diversity with animosity instead of realizing that diversity in a group empowers its members to capitalize on unique skills and areas of expertise. Careful attention must be given to mutual understanding and appreciation of individual differences. Strengthening the sense of positive cultural identity is an important aspect of establishing a viable coalition.

Often, a culturally diverse classroom is viewed in the negative sense, rather than the positive. It is easy to identify the inherent obstacles and barriers associated with differences in religion, class, age, disability, region of origination, educational level

The first phase of making the most of diversity is to make a concerted effort to become aware of what dimensions of cultural diversity exist. When conflicts, ill feelings or stressful situations arise due to the sub-cultures involved, it is because of "differences." The second phase of making the most of diversity is for people to talk about their cultural differences. Two things must be remembered concerning cultural diversity:

1. People should remember it is difficult to address cultural differences without resorting to stereotypes. In the purest form, there is no such thing as a stereotype. No person is exactly like another person and no individual is a clone of another member of a group.

2. As diversity in a classroom grows, so does the complexity of communication and the necessity to spend greater effort developing improved communication skills.

Awareness and discussion can cause a clearer picture of cultural diversity. Appreciation and understanding of cultural diversity means not just tolerating differences among individuals or groups, but supporting and nurturing them. A variety of ideas, talents, skills and knowledge is a desirable attribute to any youth or family coalition. Providing a supporting and nurturing environment enhances other goals of the coalition by exposing group members to new issues, ideas, information and cultures. Diversity creates opportunities for character development by teaching tolerance and respect for people and by encouraging concern for equity. A culturally- diverse coalition that values and nurtures people from all backgrounds is worthy of active participation. Such a group will flourish and perpetuate.

To help with your research, try reading :
Introduction to education: teaching in a diverse society - Google Books

http://books.google.it/books?id=eTsyyszsSYUC&pg=PA50&lpg=PA50&dq=do+different+ethnicities+learn+differently&source=bl&ots=9whk8eCK8U&sig=5Zdfm0owxCGG6wo2_lq0KpTkKh4&hl=en&ei=7La0S5TFNKSWsQbB-LSBDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CAwQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=do%20different%20ethnicities%20learn%20differently&f=false

Hope it helps.
Bye

Judy Said:

What is the Democrats plan to WIN THE WAR ON TERRORISM?

We Answered:

One word: appeasement!

Those European nations in the 1930s learned the hard way when trying the same thing with Hitler and Nazi Germany.

Non-aggression pact, my @$$!