Blog #3: Nationalism and Multiculturalism

I have always held the belief that exposing children to diverse cultures in the classroom has a positive effect in that it allows them to learn and understand different points of view, which is in itself a very important part of the education process. Essentially, we allow children to grow from questioning their own beliefs and coming to the realization that their own culture influences the way they see the world. When learners are able to question their own beliefs, they are then able to gain a deeper understanding.

Therefore, having children from other countries and cultures in the classroom can be a positive experience for teachers and students. It is always advantageous to view diversity as a way to learn and grow from one another. After all, what could we learn from each other if we were all the same? I am reminded of an example of an effective leader that was having a meeting with members of his organization. After he made a suggestion, he asked for feedback, specifically for feedback from those that opposed it. The leader did not want to have people around him that only agreed with what he said. Instead, he recognized that in order for his ideas to be truly great, they needed to be viewed from all different angles. Having a diverse student body, without a doubt, enhances the learning environment, as it allows the subject matter to be viewed and discussed from many different viewpoints.