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.
Understanding the difference between language and literacy is important in helping with better student outcomes and professional growth.
It is important to remember that literacy does not only apply to primary English-speaking students.
This module was exciting and made emphasis on the importance of bilingual/multilingual students. The module explains how to better help these students when learning new topics in their second language.
I learned that language and literacy are interdependent, as instructors we must be conscious of each individuals learning path and understand that each student learns differently. we must also understand the use of a students is important and the effect it may have a students ability to learn a new language as well.
Students with English as a second language, it is important to not make assumptions of understanding as conversation is different than academic language proficiency. This is also important when reviewing general literacy of a class, as students with English has a first language may not have academic proficiency as well. In nursing this can also be discussed as a class when talking about community and patient education. In the not so distance past, the average literacy grade level in the community my previous hospital system served was reported to be at a third-grade level. Improper education at the wrong literacy level as a nurse can have grave impacts on medical health, especially those with chronic illnesses. It is important to weave this discussion into nursing classes as they move forward in the clinical space, as well as the instructor recognize academic language proficiency versus conversational fluency when instructing. For this exact reason, medical providers are required to used license medical interpreters with family. In the past, I have had discussions with students about translating without certification, as medical language fluency is different from conversational then additionally academic.
Students who are supported to take new information and anchor it to a concept that they already understand in their first language helps to create an association between the two and the new information is absorbed and adopted more fluidly.
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.
