EDUC 2130

Lesson Discussion Five

 

There were several resources used in this discussion. Students watched a YouTube video as well as a Podcast and answered the corresponding questions. The theme of both of these revolved around cultural differences inside the classroom, as well as the importance of incorporating all cultures.

 

YouTube Video Questions:

 

Lesson Queston 1. What are some of the myths about Asian American students in the classroom that Diane speaks about?

 

There are several myths associated with Asian American students most of which revolve around them being smarter than others. Asian Americans are often painted as individuals that excell at academics, especially mathematics. It is believed that these individuals do not need help and can do it all on their own.

 

Lesson Question 2. How does Diane suggest teachers reach out to Asian students?

 

In order to reach out to Asian American students teachers can use a variety of methods. A simple way is by reaching out to them in a small group setting. This will allow one-on-one time with each individual and build a stronger relationship. Phonics is very important in Asian Americans. This can be worked on using pictures. Pictures are uniform across most cultures and will allow them to have a visual to relate to.

 

Lesson Question 3. How are Asian students and their non-Asian counterparts affected by inappropriate teacher expectations and stereotypes?

 

Unfair situations can often arise due to inaccurate expectations and stereotypes. One of which was mentioned in

Lesson Question 1. Asian Americans are stereotyped to be believed to be smarter than other individuals. This creates an expectation of greater academic success from teachers.

 

Lesson Question 4. Describe some things that you would use to build cultural cohesion and understanding in your classroom?

 

I believe understanding the student as a cultural being or individual is vital. Setting aside their culture and what stereotypes you previously have created will help to understand them as an individual. Research of their culture and watching the student will aid in this process.

 

Podcast 2 questions:

 

Lesson Question 1. According to Anita, what percentage of the current population speaks a language other than English?

 

According to the podcast approximatley 18% of the population speaks a language other than English. She also tells us that by the year 2020 the percent of students other than English will be greatly higher than we have seen in the past.

 

Lesson Question 2. How do children from countries such as Columbia address their teacher? Why?

 

In Columbia students address their teachers as "teacher" because they feel that it is very rude to call them by their actual name. The feel it is more respectful when they are addressed as teacher instead. Understanding this is very important considering in America we have a different practice.

 

Lesson Question 3. People from Argentina think that it is rude to do what? Why?

 

In Argentina it is considered rude for children to directly look at adults. This could easily be confused with a student who isnt paying attention or being disrespectful.

 

Lesson Question 4. Asian children are too polite to do what?

 

Asian students could be some of the best to have because they find it impolite to argue or express displeasure. This can be a good thing to keep a peaceful classroom but a negative impact if that student keeps in bottled in and holds a grudge.

 

Lesson Question 5. In some cultures, a note written in red means what?

 

In american classrooms it is common for teachers to use red pens or markers to mark problems as incorrect or to sinply grade with. Some cultures see red ink as a sign of death and could become insulted or upset if their child brings home a paper with red ink on it.

 

Summary

 

The podcast and YouTube video both include ways in which culture is affected in the classroom. The methods and variety of cultures expressed is extremely important to understand in order to run an effective classroom. Incorportating the ideas in the podcast and video will create a more culture rounded educator.

 

Research Question

 

What are ways to eliminate cultural differences in the classroom?

 

References

 

http://www.tolerance.org/publication/classroom-culture

 

http://www.understandingprejudice.org/teach/elemtips.htm

 

Research Analysis

 

The first step in creating a classroom that is culturally diverse and accepting is the classroom setup. It is important to place posters, books, and toys in ways that display a variety of cultures as well as respects all cultures. It is also very important to be careful not to display one culture more so than others. Using materials that may show a bias to teach about biases and the importance of eliminating them is a helpful way to equalize the classroom culture. Lastly, using language that is accepted among many cultures is especially important.

 

Research Summary

 

I particularly didnt enjoy my research topic this week but it was very informing. Culutural differences in the classroom is a very real and important issue. By using helpful hints, such as those I researched, an educator should be able to make all cultures feel welcomed.