Cultural Diversity in the Classroom

Paper Summary:

This paper explores the issue of cultural diversity in the classroom, using a case study. It then relates relates the information contained in the interview and links this information to current theory on cultural diversity in the educational setting. The paper looks at the history of diversity within education in the past in the United States and compares it to the current situation. The paper also contains the writer's personal reflections. It concludes with recommendations and practical applications for this area of education.

Table of Contents:
Interview Narrative
Personal Reflections
Theoretical Analysis
Self Fulfilling Prophecy
Stereotype Threat And Academic Disidentification
Cultural Funds of Knowledge
Recommendations and Practical Application

From the Paper:

"A third method for integrating culturally specific reading materials into the curriculum is through writing assignments. There are hundreds of ideas for writing assignments and projects that could help to further cultural understanding. For instance, the students might be asked to write an argumentative essay from the viewpoint of another culture. Examples of writing prompts might be to have white students write a story from the perspective of a runaway slave, or for the black students to write from the perspective of a plantation owner. This could be a powerful exercise because they must step outside of their own experience into the shoes of someone else. Many students will find this assignment difficult, but it could be a power ful experience. Assignments that let the students get personal with the other culture will help them develop a greater understanding of their likenesses and differences."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Diller, D. (1999). Opening the dialogue: Using culture as a tool in teaching young African American children. Reading Teacher, 52(8), 820-828. [Available electronically through ERIC/EBSCOhost]
• Moll, L.C., Amanti, C., Neff, D., & Gonzalez, N. (1992). Funds of knowledge for teaching: using a qualitative approach to connect homes and classrooms. Theory into Practice, 31 (2), 132-141.
• Rist, R.C. (2000). Student social class and teacher expectations: The self-fulfilling prophecy in ghetto education, Harvard Educational Review, 70 (3), 266-299.
• Steele , C.M. (1997). A threat in the air; How stereotypes shape intellectual identity and performance. American Psychologist, 52 (6), 613-629. Retrieved May 7, 2007 from http://coeweb.fiu.edu/research_conference/2007_SUIE_Proceedings_files/Wasserberg.FI NAL.pdf

More papers on Cultural Diversity in the Classroom:

• Term Paper # 125842 : "Cultural Diversity in the Classroom"
• Essay # 67708 : "Cultural Diversity in the Classroom"
• Analytical Essay # 6406 : "Cultural and Social Diversity in the Classroom"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: