Students vs. Teachers: Cultural Diversity Awareness in Online Learning
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48017/dj.v10i1.3079Keywords:
Inclusive education, inclusive online learning, inclusive teaching, inclusive graduate programs, global educationAbstract
In an increasingly interconnected world, the importance of cultural diversity awareness within educational contexts cannot be overstated. Online learning environments, which transcend geographical boundaries, bring together students and educators from diverse cultural backgrounds. This study seeks to compare the levels of cultural diversity awareness between students and teachers, examining how these awareness levels influence educational practices and interactions. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the study surveyed a representative sample of students and teachers, finding that students exhibit a high level of cultural diversity awareness with a general weighted mean of 3.87, while teachers display an even higher level with a general weighted mean of 4.20. An independent t-test revealed a significant difference between the two groups (t=-4.32, p<.05), indicating that teachers possess significantly greater cultural diversity awareness. Factors influencing these levels were explored, highlighting the importance of exposure to diverse cultures, training in cultural competence, and institutional support. The findings suggest that higher cultural diversity awareness among teachers likely enhances inclusive teaching practices, thereby positively impacting student engagement and learning outcomes in online environments. These insights underscore the necessity of fostering cultural diversity awareness to create more equitable and effective online educational settings.
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