When teachers develop a deep understanding of learners needs, interests, and strengths, differentiation and personalization of lessons is more effective. Students thrive when learning is relevant to their lives outside of the classroom. A learner focused class demands that we respect their culture, seek to understand their families, and learn about their individual interests to truly construct a culturally-relevant curriculum. Research suggests that "culturally relevant teaching... can provide effective support to at-risk students" (Dee & Penner, 2016). In addition to teaching content that is relevant, classroom management strategies should be educative and restorative to support individual learners' needs.
References Bal, Aydin. (2018). Culturally Responsive Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports: A Process-Oriented Framework for Systemic Transformation. Review of Education, Pedagogy & Cultural Studies,40(2), 144-174.
Dee, T., & Penner, E. (2016). The Causal Effects of Cultural Relevance: Evidence from an Ethnic Studies Curriculum. NBER Working Paper Series, 21865.