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Chapter 3. Diversity in the Classroom. Sources of Cultural Identity. Teachers should be knowledgeable: Race and ethnicity Religion – particularly non-Christian Sexual orientation Health Language Ability/disability Gender. Definition of Terms I. Culture
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Chapter 3 Diversity in the Classroom
Sources of Cultural Identity • Teachers should be knowledgeable: • Race and ethnicity • Religion – particularly non-Christian • Sexual orientation • Health • Language • Ability/disability • Gender
Definition of Terms I Culture • An umbrella term that denotes a complex integrated system of values, beliefs, and behaviors common to a large group of people. Ethnicity • A group classification in which members believe that they share a common origin and a unique social and cultural heritage.
Definition of Terms II • Race • An anthropological concept that classifies people according to their physiological characteristics.
Diversity in Our Classrooms • Racial/ethnic minorities - over 37% of elementary & secondary students • African-Americans disproportionately represented in special education • Hispanic/Latino Americans – fastest growing population • Asian-Americans – also fast growing ethnic group
Worldview • Describes how a person perceives his/her relationship to the world • Five Categories of Worldview • Nature • Time orientation • Activity orientation • Human relationships • Human nature
Cultural Influences on Behavior I • Collectivism v. individualism • Individual behavior involves activities and events designed to emphasize self • Collateral behavior is used to describe actions dedicated to advancing the endurance and improvement of the community
Cultural Influences on Behavior II • Verbal v. nonverbal communication • Language switching • Respectful behavior • Cultures vary in what is defined as acceptable and respectful behavior • Child rearing and discipline practices • Keep a balance between teacher’s classroom discipline and awareness of cultural variations
Cultural Influences on Behavior III • Acculturation and enculturation • Students must learn to balance family cultural connections and school community connections • May need to develop a third culture • Relationships • Social behaviors and rules are different in different cultures
Schools and Teachers Recommendations: • Help students deal with feelings of alienation • Value extended family • Facilitate positive parent-school relationship • Maintain high expectations
Multicultural Approach in the Classroom • Celebrate diversity • Celebrating cultures encourages positive view of self and of differences observed in others • Example: • Invite students to talk about family traditions, special foods, and customs
Exploring Cultural Identity It is essential that every educator… • Explore his or her own cultural identity • Raise awareness of values/biases that may interfere with providing an accepting classroom environment.
Summary In order to better understand a child’s behavior, teachers should… • Learn about students’ cultures and how it influences behavior • Have a clear sense of personal worldview and cultural identity