Twenty-sixth International Conference on Learning

Abstract

Cultural diversity is part of most schools in the current context. Classrooms concentrate a large number of diverse social and cultural groups from diverse contexts. Cultural diversity exists through immigration, through historical cultural diversity, through the existence of refugees and asylum seekers, and for economic, political, social and even religious reasons. The cultural mix is enormous in the centres and different public spaces arise where different policies are connected, from different approaches and models. This work aims to offer some ideas and reflections on the type of integration carried out by the Valencian and Spanish educational systems. We offer an analysis of the results of current educational policy in the treatment of cultural diversity. When we talk about policies, we are dealing with the subject from the perspective of educational inclusion and from the perspective of integration. For this reason, we believe it is opportune to show models and examples that are better than others, in order to deal adequately with cultural differences and to give meaning and dignity, as well as to treat all people with social justice without taking into account exclusions and categories that may be discriminatory. Finally, we want to offer conclusions that respect people regardless of their social origin and background. It is easy to stigmatize cultural differences and diversity in public spaces from social and political groups and instances located at political extremes. For this reason, we offer some reflections that can help to integrate better in today’s societies.