The Equality Act 2010 brought together all elements of previously enforceable legislation relevant to potentially discriminatory factors of society. Some aspects of this new Act superseded previous laws. The fundamental aims and progressive nature of this type of legislature meet the ongoing desire in the UK to build a fairer society, creating truly equal opportunities for all individuals to reach their potential regardless of their differences.
Teachers should implement and uphold procedures and behaviour which reflect the aims of this legislation. They should be mindful that verbal and non verbal communication, with students or colleagues is free of words, actions, conduct, environment that could be interpreted to discriminate one individual from …show more content…
another based on their race culture, sexuality, gender, membership of a particular group whether social, religious or other. They should also make students and colleagues aware of their responsibilities in this respect, at the same time always considering consequences and impact of any actions they choose.
The teaching methods should be accessible to all students, addressing individual needs without drawing unnecessary attention to the individual that they might feel uncomfortable or inhibited.
Direct Discrimination : example :
Teachers should not favour one group or individual over another either positively or negatively discriminating ensuring all students are not only treated equally but their feedback reinforces this to Teachers where appropriate.
For example, if teaching a group for whom English may not be their first language, Teachers must find ways to communicate the subject that best meets the needs of the whole class, as well as individuals. This could be something as simple as avoiding the use of local or colloquial references.
Diversity :
Any differences amongst a group should be acknowledged and respectfully embraced. Where appropriate and relevant, differences could be celebrated in a factual manner. EG., acknowledging the multi-cultural aspect of the subject and its many influences. Teaching of this nature would assist to promote the positive recognition of Diversity amongst students and teachers.
Student
:
If a student makes an openly offensive statement in the classroom, all parties involved should be dealt with equally and sensitively. However, it should be made clear that neither Teacher or organisation will tolerate openly offensive behaviour.
Teacher :
For example, in the West of Scotland, whilst setting ground rules for students they should include guidelines on dress code, banning the wearing of all football colours within the teaching environment as this can be interpreted as sectarian provocation and offensive to some groups or individuals. Clear ground rules at the beginning of teaching sessions will make it easier to deal with any situations as they arise.
REFS
19/12/13
http://equalitydiversityservices.co.uk/jargon-buster
http://www.lawscot.org.uk/about-us/equality--diversity/general/what-are-equality-and-diversity