Creating Culturally Responsive, Inclusive Classrooms

Abstract

Guidelines for the creation of culturally responsive, inclusive classrooms are provided. Culturally responsive classrooms specifically acknowledge the presence of culturally diverse students. Such classrooms also recognize the need for culturally diverse students to find relevant connections among themselves as well as with the subject matter and the tasks that teachers ask them to perform. The creation of culturally responsive, inclusive classrooms requires teachers to conduct critical self-assessment; to use a range of culturally sensitive instructional methods and materials; to establish a classroom atmosphere that respects individuals and their cultures; to foster an interactive classroom learning environment; to employ ongoing and culturally aware assessments; and to collaborate with other professionals and families.