As an educator, I plan to use the tools/techniques provided to create a classroom culture, free of bias, and all perceptions. Begin a new year with communication for a safe learning space where individuals become part of the classroom group.
I am learning how new technology can be used to help students of many different cultural backgrounds find my teaching more accessible. I'm hoping this will help promote their success.
I have learned to always differentiate between race (the social construct of physical characteristics implying a person's culture) and culture (the social/behavioral/communication characteristics) of a group of people. Simply that external features on an individual tell you nothing of that person's culture. As an instructor, it is very important to remember most people are blend of races, and you do not know someone's cultural identity based on these traits.
Using race and culture as a reason to limit students is like redlining in Real Estate. You push students to one specific area while limiting their access to others. Instead of treating all students equal, assumptions are unfairly made based on their race and culture. If that is the case educators must ask themselves are they being fair to their students and are they limiting their own teaching abilities to fit in their own prejudice prejudgement.
Every student is unique, and when these differences are acknowledged and addressed with suitable teaching methods, they enrich the learning experience for everyone.
This course has taught me to treat each student as an individual. Similar to patient centered care, each student has a unique background that can contribute to the learning process. It is the student's and teachers' responsibility to create an inclusive environment and be aware of any racial discrimination.
Culture and race are two different things. Each one of us has a culture or an adaptive culture. We are born into a race that we cannot change, and so it is important to be aware and be mindful of each other's race or culture.
Each student is different and those differences enhance the learning environment for all when recognized and appropriate instruction strategies are used.
Everyone person are their own individual regardless of the culture they practice or their race. We all all humans.
Every student brings their diverse background, experiences, and learning styles to the classroom. Ensure language is professional and without slang so all participants have the opportunity for understanding. I appreciate the multicultural experiences that students reveal in a group; this helps others see things from different perspectives.
One area I can work on is not using English phrases that cannot be translated literally since we often have Spanish, Swahili, and Russian speaking students. One example would be "to knock it out of the park."
For example, many of my students belong to a specific racial group, they are first or second-generation immigrants. They often speak Spanish and maintain strong familial and community networks, which are closely tied to their racial identity. However, they embrace American Culture, which emphasizes independence, individualism, and social mobility. You can belong to a particular racial group, but it is important not to use stereotypes, because culture is complex.
From the "Culture vs. Race" module, several key insights can be drawn that are essential for fostering a better understanding of diversity in the classroom:
Distinction between Culture and Race: It is crucial to recognize that culture and race, while often interconnected, are distinct concepts. Race refers to physical characteristics, while culture encompasses beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors shared by a group. Understanding this distinction helps in appreciating the nuances of identity.
Impact of Cultural Context: Culture shapes individuals' worldviews and experiences. Acknowledging and valuing students' cultural backgrounds can enhance classroom dynamics and promote a more inclusive environment.
Cultural Competence: Developing cultural competence involves being aware of one's own cultural biases and striving to understand the cultures of others. This can improve interactions and relationships within the classroom.
Culturally Relevant Pedagogy: Implementing teaching strategies that reflect the diverse cultures of students helps to create a more engaging and meaningful learning experience. This involves integrating cultural references into the curriculum and teaching methods.
Addressing Stereotypes: It is essential to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about race and culture. Educators have a role in dismantling biases and promoting critical thinking about these topics.
Application in Practice:
Inclusive Curriculum: I intend to review and adapt my curriculum to include diverse cultural perspectives and narratives, ensuring that all students see themselves represented in the material.
Classroom Discussions: I will facilitate open discussions about culture and race, encouraging students to share their experiences and perspectives. This can help build empathy and understanding among peers.
Professional Development: Seeking out training on cultural competence and equity in education will be a priority, as it will equip me with the tools needed to address these topics effectively in my classroom.
Creating Safe Spaces: I will work to establish a classroom environment where students feel safe to express their cultural identities and engage in conversations about race and culture without fear of judgment.
By applying these insights, I hope to create a classroom that not only values diversity but also actively promotes understanding and respect for all cultures and races.
Remembering that each student brings with them their cultural differences and to make sure to use inclusive language
Culture has to be respected and recognized in the classroom setting. Language that is inclusive is also important.
While race is a significant part of a student’s identity, culture plays a crucial role in shaping their experiences, behaviors, and perspectives. It's important for educators to embrace both and ensure that every student feels seen, understood, and valued.
Take into consideration the different experiences of students when planning group activities and class instruction.
Culture vs Race: I agree that culture is a shared pattern of behaviors and interactions, cognitive constructs, and race can be defined by many external differences.
Each student is different, with a different history, culture and life experience. Using their individual ways of learning to help them understand what is being taught is important so that they don't get placed in the stereotype of a group.
When a student is grouped into a 'racial' bias by an instructor, and it takes on a negative perception like bias or an idea that the student is less capable, it can be very alienating for a student. An example is if an instructor groups a student who has English as a 2nd language as a 'slower learner' or not able to keep up with the rest of the class. We should never place cultural or racial perceptions on students.
