Introduction to Developing and Supporting Multiculturalism and Leadership Development: International Perspectives on Humanizing Higher Education

Abstract

Education needs to be viewed in a holistic manner; it does not end when one simply acquires a degree or a job. Education creates human beings, shapes them into what they are and influences their behavior and attitude toward life. It contributes to creating a long-lasting effect on people’s mind and attitude. Developing a curriculum is not an easy task as it involves various dimensions of life, and one of them is to inculcate the idea of inclusivity and multiculturalism in the minds of young learners and help them to become effective leaders in the future. The process of teaching, delivery of lessons, assessment, evaluation and various pedagogical approaches needs to be aligned to deliver multicultural education. Society’s values, beliefs and goals should be translated into a curriculum that is relevant and connects students to society. Humanizing education to instill values that supports inclusivity and equality should be built around the cultural context synthesizing opinions and facts derived from the work of researchers and academics. This book aims to review research work conducted by academics across the world. Authors argue how social justice education and inclusion should be an inherent part of the curriculum. Strategies and tools are suggested that can strengthen the learning abilities of students and create an attitude of appreciation toward inclusivity. Case studies and interventions that have been effective are cited from Africa to the USA and UK, which can help create an intentional design of a classroom environment supporting multiculturalism. The book illustrates the importance of appropriate curriculum development involving all stakeholders and the integration of multicultural education in the curriculum. Concepts such as Ubuntu and academic freedom toward leadership development have also been stressed in this book.

Citation

Sengupta, E., Blessinger, P. and Makhanya, M.S. (2020), "Introduction to Developing and Supporting Multiculturalism and Leadership Development: International Perspectives on Humanizing Higher Education", Sengupta, E., Blessinger, P. and Makhanya, M.S. (Ed.) Developing and Supporting Multiculturalism and Leadership Development: International Perspectives on Humanizing Higher Education (Innovations in Higher Education Teaching and Learning, Vol. 30), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 3-13. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2055-364120200000030002