Cultural diversity and education in a globalised world: implications for the Asia-Pacific

Abstract

This article discusses education and cultural diversity in the Asia-Pacific Region and aims to explore key issues of cultural diversity within a framework of education and social cohesion. In doing so, this article does not contend to provide a comprehensive coverage of all educational issues and practices in each country in the Asia-Pacific region. Rather, broad issues are selectively raised to illustrate points being raised. After providing a broad overview of cultural diversity, social cohesion and national identity within the context of education, highlighted with examples from selected educational practices from some countries in the Asia-Pacific region, the impact of globalization on the introduction of new dimensions in education is critically analyzed. The article provides an overview of the importance of multicultural educational practices in the region. We critique the challenges that cultural diversity poses in the Asia-Pacific region in education and look for new strategies forward. It is concluded that the challenge for politicians in the Asia-Pacific region is to undertake political, social and educational policy initiatives which impact upon institutional and attitudinal change and foster social cohesion both in wider community and at the school level.