Diversity and social justice in education

Abstract

This chapter assesses how education responds
to diversity and interconnected inequality,
and how these responses work towards human
flourishing and social justice. It examines
different forms of diversity, namely, race/
ethnicity/language, religion, gender, sexuality,
social class, disability and neurodiversity (i.e.
learning differences); as well as how these
intersect. Sexuality and neurodiversity are
relatively recent additions to the diversity
discussion. While officially advocating for
‘equal educational opportunities’, governments
variously prioritize different forms of diversity,
guided by historical, political, social and
economic contexts. Measures to address diversity
have names such as ‘multicultural’, ‘inclusive’,
‘human rights’ and ‘diversity and social justice’
education. Policy implementation varies across
societies and can be enhanced by effective
monitoring, increased funding and relative
autonomy of local actors to interpret policies to
suit local circumstances. Given the critical role
that teachers play, teacher education programmes
should prepare culturally responsive educators.