Diversity approaches in primary school teacher training programs in Chile

Abstract

This research analyses how the demands for inclusion and cultural diversity are addressed in the initial teacher training processes of 68 primary educators in Chile. The graduation profiles and the curriculum are analysed, including quantity of courses associated with diversity &/or special needs educations; the titles of the modules taught and the year of which these modules degrees are taught. It is a qualitative study, with an exploratory and descriptive scope, and an content analysis of information provided by the websites of each higher education institution involved. The results show that most universities dictate one module associated with diversity or special needs education, which are of secondary importance and isolated from the study program. The words most used in the title program are diversity and inclusion. Regarding the profiles of graduates, 65% of the degrees offer generic content on diversity, which do not indicate the priorities and approaches within the content. The use of the word “context” was predominant, but not described nor problematized. Also predominant was a focus on interpersonal relationships, but without a consideration of structural aspects of inequality, discrimination and conflict.