Why is diversity important in education?

As demographics across the US rapidly shift there is an increased need to prepare teachers to work with diverse learners and families. With preparation and awareness of important diversity related issues/topics, teachers will be able to not only improve their teaching style but will also encourage students to recognize acknowledge and accept individual differences (Farah, 2017). Educators have a huge responsibility as they are preparing the next generation of leaders and professionals. Instructors can open students' minds so they explore new opportunities and be more accepting of diversity and related issues (Frankenberg & Siegel-Hawley, 2008). In the business world, the inability to work with individuals of different races and ethnicities is not acceptable as employees are supposed to act maturely in day-to-day operations and especially when it is expected to deal with a diverse population base. It is extremely important for instructors/educators to start having these conversations early on with their students so begin to recognize diversity and approach problems with open mind (Frankenberg & Siegel-Hawley, 2008).