For my EDU 1001 course in the Spring 2021 semester, we interviewed three teachers about their experience as teachers. We then had to focus two of our interview questions on a topic and then find three research articles on that topic. I chose to do my topic on having a responsive classroom so here is my presentation of my findings. 

In my EDU 3001 course during the Spring 2024 semester, we read the book Everyday Antiracism. One of the ways you can teach children from diverse cultural backgrounds to collaborate that I learned about is by providing activities in your classroom that involve cross-cultural workshops, where students share and celebrate their cultural backgrounds. We can also Implement inclusive curriculum content that reflects diverse perspectives and fosters understanding. I also think it would be a great opportunity to organize community service projects or collaborative assignments to encourage collaboration and break down stereotypes. Finally, I think regular cultural awareness events would be great, where students can showcase and learn about each other's traditions to create a more inclusive, interconnected school community. 

Also, students engaging in interracial conversation is more productive than having an educator start the conversations. There are going to be times when conversations regarding race are infuriating to some or even uncomfortable, but I learned four agreements that students should follow to lead a meaningful conversation.

1. Staying engaged as a facilitator, it is important to ensure the students are engaged with the conversation and encouraged to enter into the conversation so that they feel supported

2. It is okay to experience discomfort as there are going to be multiple different perspectives and experiences shared

3. Speak the truth and it is very important for those participating in the conversation, to be honest about their feelings, thoughts, and opinions

4. Expect and accept a lack of closure whereas educators, we should encourage our students to continue these conversations

• Encourage collaboration by promoting a cooperative classroom culture where students learn to support each other, solve problems together, and recognize each other's strengths. For example, incorporate team-building exercises and games that promote collaboration among students, like engaging in group problem-solving challenges or collaborative art projects.

• Recognize and celebrate successful collaborations, highlighting the contributions of each student and reinforcing the value of teamwork. For example, you can have groups present their collaborative work to the class, allowing students to showcase their accomplishments and receive recognition from their classmates.

• Teach effective collaboration strategies such as active listening, turn-taking, and expressing ideas clearly to facilitate collaboration. For example, implement structured collaboration routines, such as "think-pair-share" activities.

• Give clear instructions, modeling, and scaffolding to help students understand their roles within a group and navigate collaborative processes. For example, make sure that each student in their group has a specific role or responsibility to ensure that each student knows their contribution 

• Design collaborative tasks that accommodate the diverse abilities and needs of all students, providing support and modifications as necessary. For example, use assistive technology or adaptive materials to ensure that all students can actively participate in collaborative activities. You can provide visual support or communication devices for students with communication difficulties