Policies and practices for teaching sociocultural diversity – Concepts, principles and challenges in teacher education

The project 'Policies and practices for teaching sociocultural diversity' was launched by the Steering Committee for Education (CDED) in 2006, with the primary aim of promoting the recognition of diversity in pre-service teacher training and the management of diversity at school. This publication is aimed at all staff in teacher education institutions. It intends to raise discussion about how teacher education, particularly in-service training, can prepare student teachers to become reflective professionals responsive to diversity in schools and classrooms. It addresses the urgent need to develop courses and practical training which stimulate the competence and reflection necessary to enhance inclusive environments where children and young people can learn to live together respecting differences. This work offers an outline of the main principles underpinning work in the diversity area. It also introduces some key concepts related to sociocultural diversity in education while analysing some challenges in teacher education and development. It identifies policy measures and guidelines for teachers' pre-service training institutions.