Educating for Diversity in New Zealand: Considerations of Current Practices and Possible Pathways?

Abstract

This article reviews what the current practices are for educating students for diversity, and what considerations need to be made. New Zealand prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive society with bicultural foundations. Although all people have the right to an education free of bias and discrimination, the experiences of many disabled, minority, or ethnic groups, gender and sexually diverse students, and their families suggest that there is still a long way to go in educating for diversity. This literature review considers approaches to teaching that encourage diversity, and reviews certain factors that may need to be reconsidered by educators if we are to truly appreciate, and educate for, diversity. Through exploring possible pathways, teachers should understand the complex diversity of each student in their class, and how valuing this diversity can provide 21st century students and their communities with a diverse knowledge base, and willingness to work and collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds.