Theological Contribution to Creating and Developing a Culture of Diversity in the Classroom

Abstract

Pluralism in the classroom implies a creative responsibility of all actors in the teaching and learning process. Though this responsibility can take many forms, depending on the role of each actor, respect for diversity should be a common denominator. This is the way to overcome bias and superficiality resulting in partisan passivism which is conducive to the creation of ideological prejudices. Introducing optional subjects at all levels of education is a good way for overcoming misunderstandigs caused by different attitudes. The main purpose of optional school subjects is to nurture a culture of dialogue in which developing the skill of listening to others and understandarding something that is different becomes very important. This is a great challenge for an engaged theology which is expected to develop creativity based on the argument – “We agree that we disagree”. The result of such creativity is a culture of diversity which develops creative progression and prevents misunderstandings caused by the ’otherness’ of other people. In this type of culture, every individual responsibly builds an identity of unity in diversity, while white domination and discrimination are viewed as flaws that everyone should correct in themselves. This is a long-term proces which requires a well-conceived strategy and practice in the classroom.

Keywords

• pluralism
• dialogue
• optional school subjects
• ideological prejudices
• unity in diversity