Cultural Representations of Diversity
The following is an analysis of diversity discourses within cultural representations of 'Diversity'
The Harmony day initiative is designed to celebrate the diversity of students.
The idea of this initiative is positive and it does have positive outcomes by introducing students to a range of different cultures. It also provides a positive and safe space for diverse students to show case their backgrounds and cultures.
It is, however, problematic to only designate one day to celebrate all diversity within a school. The lack of time from only having one day leads to shallow, superficial celebrations of diversity, preventing students from experiencing deep learning. Furthermore, it may leave diverse students feeling that they are only important and celebrated one day of the year.
Another potential issue is that students may feel alienated by Harmony day as it could be seen as highlighting difference rather than celebrating and supporting it.
Overall, I think Harmony Day is a positive initiative and has a lot of potential for being a great support for diversity. I do however, think that the day needs to be planned and framed effectively and that diversity should also be celebrated all year round.
Harmony Day
The Smith Family: Sponsor a child
The Smith Family sponsor advertisement displays diversity in a socio-economic sense.
The advertisement brings to light the disadvantage experienced by students who are less well off than their peers.
Visually we are shown images of a young girl who is clearly unhappy, in clothes that are old and discoloured in comparison to her peers. The accompanying story highlights the struggles the girl has faced, including alienation from her peers and falling behind in her learning.
As a teacher, it is important to be aware of students who are experiencing financial disadvantage and support them within the classroom. Teachers are, however, limited in what support they can provide so initiatives such as this are wonderful to provide additional financial support to improve the situation.
Pauline Hanson: Autism comments
Recently Pauline Hanson made controversial comments about students with Autism, sparking intense debate and backlash.
Her comments suggested that students with Autism should be removed from mainstream classrooms to receive special attention in order to benefit the other students.
Hanson has defended her comments by stating that she intended to simply bring the issue of students with Autism needing extra support to light.
I do agree that it is important for the need for extra support to be discussed. Many schools and students struggle to receive funding in order to provide students with Autism the support they need.
These students, however, should not be removed from mainstream classrooms, nor should they be viewed as less important than there peers.
Instead we need to find a balance of supporting students with Autism and mainstream students.