Embracing Student Diversity in Higher Education Classroom



Author Information

Michelle Metzger, Buena Vista University, United States
Jill Tussey, Buena Vista University, United States
Leslie Haas, Texas A&M University, United States

Abstract

The presentation will focus on the field-tested practices the presenters have utilized in their own classrooms over the topic of student diversity. Student diversity can look different based on the higher education institution; however, the support that students need remains constant. According to Purdue Global (2023) "diversity enhances education, and students gain intellectual benefits from being exposed to peers from diverse backgrounds. It also bolsters support for upholding affirmative action in higher education” (para. 13). As professors within the higher education setting, we see students in our classrooms who come from all different backgrounds and lifestyles. Thus we see the need to support all learners in our classroom setting as an important goal. The presenters have gathered written and verbal feedback from students about activities and resources utilized in the classrooms to determine the level of effectiveness.

Some of the topics that will be discussed in this presentation include supporting first generation students, utilizing gamified learning adventures, embedding digital narratives as a tool for multilingual and multicultural classrooms, evaluating online resources versus textbooks, presenting information in various modes, and creating assignments in a variety of formats. Throughout the many years as educators, we have collected/developed resources, activities, and practices on how to create and support a diverse classroom that will be shared. During the presentations, we will discuss structuring online and face-to-face learning environments. In addition, we have resources that can be shared with other professionals about the importance of diversity in the classroom and supporting all student learners.


Paper Information

Conference: ACEID2026
Stream: Higher education

The full paper is not available for this title


Virtual Presentation


Comments & Feedback

Place a comment using your LinkedIn profile

Comments

Share on activity feed

Powered by WP LinkPress

Share this Research

Posted by James Alexander Gordon