Learning is an inherently complex process. When we’re learning, we're simultaneously processing multiple types of information including contextual clues, multiple modes of learning like reading and listening, and different learning styles. This process is difficult enough as it is, but if you add in the fact that not everyone learns or processes information the same way, the learning system can become even more challenging. In order to bring balance back into our learning eco system, we need to start creating learning experiences that are more equitable for all learners. Diverse Learning Diversifies the Educational Experience. In this article we explore the value of diversifying the learning environment from an organization’s perspective.
What We Know About Diversity of Learning
Diversity of learning is the process of exploring and finding your place in the world while increasing your understanding of people and cultures different from your own. It is learning about the backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs of those around you and seeing the similarities between them. It is a way to grow as a person and as a society. We must comprehend that there is no one best way to educate or learn. The best instructors and coaches adapt their methods to each student's needs, and the best students learn to express their wants or create conditions that support their particular learning style. Keep in mind that your employees may not learn in the same way as you do, just as two siblings (even "identical" twins) may achieve equal learning success using completely different approaches.
Why is Diversity Important?
When you grow up, it’s important to be exposed to a diverse set of ideas and perspectives. It’s also important to have a sense of belonging and acceptance within your community. Yet, studies have found that in a lot of organizations, many employees feel like they don’t belong. They may experience this in both large and small ways. If you’re experiencing this, it’s important to recognize it. There are resources you can turn to. organizations can also play a role in creating a more inclusive environment for all employees. Organizations can create more inclusive environments by implementing policies, programs, and practices that support employees with all types of backgrounds, abilities, and learning styles. Diversity and inclusion are crucial because they have numerous advantages. Empowering diversity will undoubtedly have a positive impact on a varied workplace. However, we also engage in other daily activities such as socializing and maintaining relationships with others in our society.
3 Ways to Make Your Employee’s Learning Experience More Diverse
- Diversity of experiences: Explore different learning experiences with your employees. Go to talks, cultural events, and
camps. This will provide a more enriching experience than simply sitting in a training room.
- Diversity of environments: Create an environment that is more accepting of different experiences. If you and your
employees are the only ones who experience a certain type of environment, it will feel more exclusive than if you were
surrounded by others who also experience that same type of environment.
- Diversity of feedback: Don’t assume that you know what your employee “should” be learning. Rather, try assessing what
your employee “is” interested in and how he/she learns best. This will give your employee the opportunity to explore
different learning opportunities and find joy in learning again.
How to Create an Equitable Environment for Learning
It can be easy to focus on the academic side of learning and forget about the emotional and social side. While learnings are important, it’s important to also cultivate an environment that supports emotional health and well-being. This is something that specific programs can address, but you can also do it as an organization by creating a more accepting and equitable environment for your employee. Try talking to your employee about his/her experiences. What do they like/dislike about the organization? What would make working more enjoyable? What is missing from the organization that would make it more equitable for your employee? These types of questions can allow you to create a more equitable environment for your employees.
Conclusion
As we transition into the 21st century, it’s important that we continue to invest in education and learning. The question is how can we make learning more equitable for all learners? Breaking down the barriers that can often keep marginalized employees from participating in the learning eco system is essential. Diversity of learning allows us to break down these barriers and make education more equitable for all learners. When all employees’ voices are heard and their perspectives are valued, this is one of the outcomes of equity. This goes much beyond stating that we want to stop the harmful effects of inequality; it involves realizing that every employee contributes skills and abilities to the learning environment and then supporting every employee so that they can do so.
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