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
Understanding a student's mother tongue is important because it helps educators facilitate learning more effectively.
While the use of multiple languages within the classroom may not be possible, understanding that the manner in which someone is conversing in the language of the school may not be a true reflection of their abilities/knowledge/skill. Allowing students to use dictionaries/translators can allow them to feel more comfortable, as long as it does not violate any policies/legislation.
Understanding the student language and supporting them can be helpful in their learning.
Helping a student in their mother tongue can be helpful to their learning
literacy and language are interdependent
We need to be aware of limitations related to language, and act accordingly.
English is not the only language
Linquistic diversity should be honored as a means to help provide a more equitable learning environment. An individuals mother tongue allows the instructor to understand that they might process and understand concepts differently or it might take a moment to get a concept. Being understanding and having patience with our students shows compassion and allows them to learn the material without having undo stress.
English is not the only language that should be acknowledged among a diverse group of students that may speak many languages. Also the "mother tongue" should not be hidden, it can in fact help us, as instructors, understand more about the student.
We have the most clear understanding in our native tongue. Students should be afforded subject matter in that manner to reenforce and clarify things possibly missed in lecture.
It is important to help students to access learning material in their mother tongue to ensure they have the best comprehension on the subject material while simultaneously improving their English comprehension.
Heps with professional learning
Providing support to help students successfully navigate the professional learning while being sensitive to 'mother 'language and how it is used to further understand.
Language sensitivity helps all students improving the academic experience
To foster an inclusive environment, pay attention to your language and avoid excluding people through your communication style.
When we honor students' languages, we honor their cultures. We keep them engaged in content and help connect ideas through discussions, projects, or classroom materials.
Having empathy for everyone who is a second language learner shows the ability to look past any perceived prejudices of someone's intellect and abilities to express themselves in any learning environment. As one who is multi-lingual and tries to scramble the different nuances instantaneously of a language in conversation and teaching gives me the understanding that those who are multi lingual are really very intelligent and are deserving of understanding and patience in any learning environment.
