 refers to the range of identities that exist in a

group of people. Common identity categories

referenced when discussing diversity include
race, class, gender, religion and sexual
orientation.
 represents a broad range of ideas and initiatives
to create learning environments that are safe,
inclusive and equitable for as many identities as
possible. Recognizing, fostering and developing
sensitivity to the needs of people in various
identity categories are primary aims of
educational diversity.
 Today's diversity initiatives in education
encompass an even wider range of categories and
practices. Initially, affirmative action and equal
opportunity policies recognized race, religion,
gender, color, ethnicity and national origin.
 Since the 1980s, it have expanded to include such
categories as ability, sexual orientation and learning
styles. Educational practice has gone beyond providing
access to minority groups. Now, many educators are
discussing ways to revise teaching strategies so methods
are more inclusive.
 Diversity practices are also responding to new
developments in education, such as research about
students with learning challenges. As an example, the
movement toward differentiated instructional strategies
aims to cater to the diversity of learning styles in the
classroom.
 Diversity in education increases a student's cultural
awareness, satisfaction with college and commitment to
fostering racial understanding.

 Studies have shown that having diverse classrooms help

develop tolerance and a greater sense of security when
in environments with other foreign cultures present. It
also helps students learn about other languages and
cultures, encouraging them to be interculturally sensitive.