Culture in our Classrooms (REL Midwest)

Summary

The video script emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive teaching in the diverse educational landscape. It underscores the need for teachers to recognize and address the individual needs of students from various backgrounds. The script discusses the benefits of such practices, including increased student engagement, motivation, and academic achievement. It also highlights the significance of teacher training in cultural competency, the misconception that cultural teaching is solely about race, and the impact of these practices on all students. The narrative encourages teachers to reflect on their students' lived experiences and to create inclusive learning environments that enhance education for every child.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The world's diversity is a rich tapestry that teachers should recognize and value in their classrooms.
• 🔄 The educational system must adapt to the changing diversity in schools, acknowledging that change is challenging but necessary.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers who engage in culturally responsive practices foster increased student engagement, motivation, and academic achievement.
• 📚 Cultural competency training, required by law in some states, helps teachers understand and reflect on various cultural groups and biases.
• 📈 Research indicates that culturally responsive teaching benefits all students, not just those from diverse backgrounds.
• 🤝 Building strong relationships with students is fundamental to creating a safe and effective learning environment.
• 👂 Listening to and valuing students' lived experiences and cultures is crucial for personalized education.
• 🏫 Middle school is a critical period for identity development, making culturally responsive practices especially impactful during these years.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family engagement is enhanced when teachers understand and respect students' cultures, which in turn influences academic success.
• 🌐 Culturally responsive teaching is not a one-time task but an ongoing process that requires continuous adaptation to the evolving cultural landscape.

Q & A

What is the significance of the kaleidoscope analogy in the context of the video?

The kaleidoscope analogy signifies the diversity of ideas, people, and abilities in the world, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual needs in an educational setting.

Why is the current educational system described as no longer working?

The system is described as no longer working because the diversity in schools has changed, necessitating a change in the educational approach to accommodate these shifts.

What are the benefits of teachers engaging in culturally responsive practices according to the video?

Benefits include increased student engagement and motivation in school, reduced problem behaviors, and improvements in academic achievement such as reading, math, and writing.

What was the outcome of the 2017 state law regarding cultural competency training for teachers?

The law required cultural competency training for teachers but was vague on specifics. Through stakeholder meetings, a robust definition was developed to guide what the training should entail.

How does Gloria Ladson-Billings define culturally responsive teaching?

Gloria Ladson-Billings defines culturally responsive teaching as 'good teaching' that acknowledges and incorporates students' lived experiences and cultures into the classroom.

What misconception about culturally relevant teaching is addressed in the video?

The video addresses the misconception that culturally relevant teaching is solely about race. It clarifies that while race is a part of culture, it is a small part, and culturally responsive practices benefit all students regardless of race or cultural background.

What are the two parts of the cultural competence training required by the state?

The two parts include understanding and self-reflection on different cultural groups and implicit bias.

Why is it important for teachers to build relationships with their students?

Building relationships is key to creating a safe learning environment, fostering trust, and making the teaching process more effective by personalizing education to meet students' needs.

How does culturally responsive teaching impact family engagement?

Culturally responsive teaching can increase family engagement by fostering better relationships between teachers, students, and families, which is linked to improved academic achievement.

What advice does the video give to teachers who may feel overwhelmed by the idea of culturally responsive practices?

The video suggests that teachers should start by getting to know their students, understanding their interests and backgrounds, and incorporating this knowledge into their teaching to make it more engaging and effective.

How does the video suggest teachers can support their own development in culturally responsive teaching?

Teachers are encouraged to reflect on their own biases, engage in professional development, and utilize resources to understand and incorporate equity and culturally responsive practices in their classrooms.