Language as a Reflection of Culture | Origin: ED137
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Cultural Diversity: Including Every Student --> Language as a Reflection of Culture
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
Language is not just about words -- it shows how people think, relate to each other, show respect, and understand the world
Language is a reflection of culture, and using their native language "Mothers Tongue" can greatly increase student engagement
Encourage Multilingual students to use their home language as a strength not a barrier.
I learned the difference between language and literacy. Even though students don’t have ENGLISH as their first language they can have high literacy and vice versa. Also it is important to allow students to learn using their mother tongue as this can help them learn better.
It's important to understand the difference in languages and how that can affect students understanding of course material. It's important to make sure every student has the resources they need to succeed.
Language is a reflection of culture and they both enhance one another.
This module highlighted how language is not just a tool for communication, but a profound reflection of a student's cultural identity and worldview.
I had a colleague that did to tell me that her elementary school teacher told her mother to not speak her mother language because it would only confuse her.
Understanding the language diversity helps an instructor to identify the learning gaps a student might be facing because of this.
Instructors working with students whom English is not their first language should consider the student may be able to speak a new language but have difficulty associating the meaning of the word.
This module made me more aware of how closely language and culture are tied together. The words people use, the way they communicate, and even their non-verbal habits all reflect their background and experiences. I realized how easily meaning can get lost if we don’t pay attention to those differences.
Moving forward, I plan to be more mindful of the language I use with patients and coworkers — choosing clear, respectful communication and asking for clarification when something doesn’t translate the same way. It’s a simple shift, but it really helps build trust and avoid misunderstandings.
Helps with professional learning and leadership.
A person who is highly literate may appear to struggle as they navigate a new language. If you see a student struggling with the English language, you may offer resources or help them understand that learning in their mother-language is appropriate if necessary. You don't want students to struggle because English is their second language. As an instructor, you should be mindful and continue to be inclusive of those who may be learning a new language.
Understanding languages spoken and literacy can aid in determining best use of language in learning materials for didactic success of student.
Language is a reflection of culture because it expresses the values, beliefs, customs, and experiences of the people who use it.
Very interesting topic, I always wanted to be more fluent in another language but haven't done any additional learning since french class in my high school years. Neat to know the cognitive skill that can come along with that. I think I'm my instructing i will allow more time for students to process English based course content and also encourage them to no steer away from their 1st or other languages to enhance their learning .
I learned that language is one of the strongest reflections of culture because it carries the values, history, and identity of the people who speak it. The way we communicate—through words, expressions, and even tone—shows how we see the world and connect with others. In a diverse classroom or workplace, recognizing and respecting different languages helps build inclusion and understanding. I plan to apply this by being patient with language differences, encouraging open communication, and valuing the unique perspectives that come from different cultural backgrounds.
An individual's "mother tongue" is a reflection of their cultural heritage. It is imperative that when teaching, you take into consideration if the individual is mono, bi, or multilingual.
allow each student to continue to develop both literacy and language skills without making assumptions about what they can or cannot do in the language
