Communication is one of the most important aspects of education. Both verbal and non verbal communication if used effectively can help a student to grow and learn. However, sometimes in a diverse classroom, communication can become a challenge. Whether the children speak a different language or have different socially accepted norms, it is hard to effectively communicate with every student. In the school I am tutoring in, the classroom teacher emphasizes communication every day. Her students sit in tables of four, and are all of different cultures. The children learn to understand each other and get a good sense of ways of fitting in and adjusting to society. On top of the students learning from each other, the teacher also makes a conscious effort to make sure she understands where every student is coming from and communicates with them based on their needs.
This prompt reminded me of John Dewey and how he said that education is a social function. Students thrive by learning from each other and their differences. The classroom is a nice mix of children from different cultures and the students are benefitting from communicating with their peers. These students are lucky to have such a culturally competent teacher. Even at the kindergarten level, they are learning not only the essential educational concepts, but also how to be a active member of our society.
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