INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES FACTOR: Learning and diversity

Introduction

Contexts, race, color, gender, values, and points of view all play a role in shaping
our uniqueness despite the fact that there are some characteristics that we all share,
such as natural intellect and drive. Human diversity is a key subject in every educational
discussion. As members of a varied group, we face several challenges as a result of our
diversity. These obstacles may result in a great deal of inequality and prejudice, which
may have a negative impact on the learning process. On the other side, our diversity
may contribute to a far broader knowledge of the issue as we widen our perspectives.

Classrooms are growing more diverse. Diversity in the classroom is becoming a

growing problem for educators throughout the educational system. Individual
differences are characteristics that distinguish us from others. As individuals and
learners, we each have a unique set of elements that impact our learning environment.
It might be the learner's surroundings, the learner's growth, or a variety of other factors.
Societal institutions are made up of a varied collection of people. Educational
institutions are not excluded. Those that attend such an institution, including the
students, come from a variety of backgrounds. As a varied group of people, there are
many parallels and variations in learning requirements that we must consider as future
instructors. As a result, several questions arise, such as how much diversity influences
education and how to balance teaching about similarities and differences of learners.
Ignoring the growth in diversity may have unintended consequences. Embracing variety
and developing diversity-inclusive classrooms, on the other hand, may help every
student succeed.
Body 

Diversity refers to what makes each of us distinct, and it encompasses our

backgrounds, personalities, life experiences, and beliefs, as well as everything else that
makes us who we are. Our worldview, perspective, and attitude are shaped by a
mixture of our differences (Deloitte, 2011). Recognizing, accepting, and appreciating
differences based on ethnicity, gender, age, race, religion, handicap, and sexual
orientation is also part of diversity. It also contains an endless number of individual
differences and experiences, such as communication style, job path, life experience,
educational background, geographic area, economic level, marriage status, parenting
status, and other elements that impact personal viewpoints (Chubb, 2018).

In terms of the learning process. Diversity is essential in the learning-teaching

process. Using the Diversity Pedagogy Theory as a guide (DPT). DPT integrates
culture, cognition, and education into one entity. It combines classroom practice with in-
depth understandings of the role diversity plays in learners' social and cognitive
development.
The race is the most visible manifestation of diversity. Many studies have been
conducted to explore the influence of ethnicity on educational and learning outcomes.
And the majority of it has concluded that ethnic diversity has a significant impact on
learning. Language, for example, is a result of ethnicity; while language has a universal
foundation, it differs from one ethnic group to the next as a result It poses a barrier and
might impair instructional efficiency.

For example, Teachers may find it simpler to cope with a similar group of non-
native students. Teachers' actions can become more complicated if they are required to
devote particular teaching time to several ethnic groups. Then dedicating some teaching
time to the linguistic challenges of a certain ethnic community (La Ferrara, 2005).
From a developmental standpoint, individuals do not all develop at the same rate in
terms of development. Individuals have stage-specific learning requirements based on
their maturational levels. Some people may lag behind in typical phases of human
development, including cognitive, psychological, and physical components.
Here are a few of the most common differences that affect the learning process. We all
know that no two students are alike; even though they share many similarities, they
have different identifying characteristics. Because diversity is a broad phrase that
includes a wide range of ideas.

Conclusion

Diversity may be detrimental or beneficial in the classroom. Diversity raises a

slew of difficulties, including prejudice, discrimination, and many challenges. As future
educators, we must constantly ensure that all students feel valued and appreciated.
Regardless of their individual characteristics, circumstances, or upbringing. As students
begin school, they will meet peers with a broad range of abilities, ethnicities, languages,
and backgrounds. It is very normal for kids to observe parallels and differences and to
be curious, and it is up to the adults in their life to not just model acceptance of variety
but to frame it as a strength.

Our aim as educators is to ensure that you do not overlook a significant

component of a student's identity and that you promote an atmosphere in which
differences are welcomed and understood, especially if those differences have
previously been neglected or disparaged.

References:

Deloitte. (2011). Only skin deep? Re-examining the business case for diversity
Chubb. (2018).  Insurance Group company case study - approach to diversity 
 La Ferrara. (2005). “Ethnic Diversity and Economic Performance.”