Advantages of learning in multicultural environments
Throughout the world, communities include people of different nationalities, colour and religious beliefs. When these differences come together they form a multicultural environment. Large cities often present cosmopolitan environments, from London to Argentina. Multicultural educational environments are increasingly prominent in contemporary society.
Advantages of learning in multicultural environments
There are many advantages of children learning in multicultural environments. Children gain important insights and interpersonal skills which are beneficial to succeeding in today’s modern multicultural society.
Greater cultural awareness
Educational environments with differing races, religions and cultural backgrounds offer children the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of different cultures from around the world. Children are like sponges to new ideas, concepts and values, and therefore can learn to respect and appreciate other lifestyles and choices.
Flexible to change
Knowing there are a range of beliefs, lifestyles and commitments, children are more able to make independent choices about their path. Children get to know a range of traditions, cuisines, music and habits others have grown up with. Educational environments with a diverse mix of cultures reduce the risk of minority group discrimination. Children growing and learning in multicultural environments become flexible and adaptable to change.
Fair treatment of others
Children are on a path of personal discovery, finding out who they are, what they want and where they are heading in life. Children naturally judge where they fit in the spectrum of their world. Children unfamiliar with alternative cultures may judge of aesthetic characteristics. Understanding alternative lifestyles is the first step to acceptance of others. Multicultural learning environments encourage judgements of personal qualities, contribution to society and independent thought. Treating others fairly, regardless of skin colour and religious beliefs promotes broad mindedness and exploratory attitudes.
Brighter futures
Growing and learning in a multicultural environment gives children greater understanding of others beliefs, attitudes and behaviours. With this knowledge of others, children will have a higher level of interpersonal and social skills. This is greatly beneficial for children leaving school, and entering higher education and the work place. With the rich variety of lifestyles and beliefs engaged in the working world, future generations become more liberal in their approach to life, while becoming more united in their society.
Reduced discrimination
Communities are growing in diversity, where children need to avoid sweeping generalisations of people. While stereotypes may provide a benchmark for very young learners, it is essential for children to understand that people are to be ‘treated as they would expect to be treated themselves’ – with respect and dignity.
More than textbook learning
Learning in multicultural environments, such as the International School London , provide high levels of academic education with enhanced social skills for building positive relationships with others. Successful international school environments offer IB Curriculum containing core subject groups, such as Mother Tongue and Modern Languages, Mathematics, Science, Technology, Arts and Humanities.
Resources:
Acceptance, appreciation and enhancement of multiple cultures
International education for children across the globe
Independent, special, boarding and international schools
