Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Discriminate. Verb 1, To discriminate between things means to recognise and understand the difference between them. 2 To discriminate against a person or group means to treat them unfairly, usually because of their race colour or sex.
Each student is different; they bring with them different life experiences, disabilities, race, religions and genders. All of these must be recognised by the tutor and respected. The tutor must discriminate and recognise the differences between students and treat them all with equal fairness and promote equality of opportunity for all. Racist and sexist attitudes must be avoided as should assumptions made towards disabled people. These should be challenged when they show themselves. Teaching materials must be checked for discriminatory material and be under continual review to ensure equality for all groups.
Obstacles to learning must be identified and then dealt with if students are to achieve their full potential, obstacles such as access to buildings for disabled students, hearing technology for the hearing impaired or accommodating students with young families. At BAEC the installation of ramps and low level exit buttons on doors for disabled students and the crèche facilities remove some these obstacles and promote a feeling of inclusion for all. Although I am able bodied, when I see all of the facilities on offer for disabled students at BAEC it makes me feel that I am in a place that cares and that has a positive effect on me.
This policy of Inclusion and Equality is an ongoing process and must be monitored through personal behavior. Our tutor first checked with the class at a lecture if anyone would be offended by her use of the word ‘mad’ and this, I feel, showed sensitivity and understanding. This is essential for the student to feel valued which translates into a more positive learning experience for all students.
Students also differ from each other in their learning...