Abstract

Debela Tezera*

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to examine perceptions and practices of multicultural education in some selected preparatory schools of Eastern Wollega Zone Oromia Regional State. Using the survey method data were collected from 51 teachers, 3 school principals, 11 educational expert, and 102 students. The Students were selected randomly by using simple random sampling method were as school principals, teachers, and educational expert were selected by availability sampling method. Questionnaires, interview, and observation were used. The collected data were analyzed by frequencies, percentages, and words. The findings of the study indicated that 56.5 % of respondents perceive multicultural education, but 52.98% of respondents did not translated into educational practices from multicultural perspective. The study also revealed some practices of implementing multicultural issue in schools. such as, establishing various clubs which used to create awareness and positive attitude toward diversity issues , create equal opportunity for all students, empowering students in all activities, giving workshop for teachers in services and services, reducing discrimination and educating society about issues of diversity. In light of these findings, it is recommended that teachers have to encourage students in practicing, respecting, and appreciating diversity. Learning and teaching process has also to incorporate reflective diversity into teaching from multicultural education perspective. In addition, school principals, Oromia education bureau, and ministry of education should create different mechanisms for fostering issues of diversity and a means to minimize discrimination. Finally, ways of improving students and teachers’ educational practices from multicultural perspectives such as maintaining objectives of multicultural education, practices, and organizing panel discussion with regards to diversity issues through media and giving due attention for practical parts were should done .