Abstract This paper is a position paper on multicultural curriculum. The paper discusses what a multicultural curriculum is and why it is needed in today's multicultural classrooms. It looks at the division among those who support a multicultural curriculum and those who don't. The paper briefly discusses how to teach the multicultural curriculum.
From the Paper "According to Gollnick and Chinn multicultural education has the purpose of further developing a democratic society by providing and promoting a respect and understanding of diverse ethnic and cultural groups ..."
Abstract This paper discusses the positive and negative aspects of multiculturalism in Canada. The paper explains that, for the most part, multiculturalism has been good for Canada. It has brought Canada some of its most talented and industrious people, and it has exposed ordinary Canadians to new cultures, to new modes of thinking, and to new ways of living life. The paper also explains that, on the other hand, it may be said that the great strength of multiculturalism can also be its greatest weakness insofar as the mass influx (and largely uncritical acceptance) of large groups of people across the nation's borders can potentially lead to the indulgence - tacit or otherwise - of attitudes that, on their face, are not attitudes most Canadians and even most government officials would find palatable.
Abstract Multiculturalism and gender equality are discussed with reference to S.M.Okin's volume. A central concept is the concern for cultural or group minority rights that is part and parcel of multiculturalism, even when the groups or cultures in question may actually disservice women.
Abstract This essay takes a look at various opposing definitions of multiculturalism. The paper reviews literature on the topic and argues that there is no consensus as to the meaning of the term multiculturalism. The paper also suggests that this lack of consensus hampers research on the topic.
From the Paper "What is multiculturalism? In most any discussion of the subject some authors will note that, through multiculturalism, a society and or an institution can create positive relationships between people as well as create an environment in which differences between people are recognized and respected. However, other authors will note just the opposite. For example Berliner and Hull call multiculturalism racism in a politically correct guise and a grave threat to American society. It seems reasonable to state that a reasoned debate..."
Abstract In this essay the writer looks at some of the aspects related to multiculturalism as a public policy in Canada. The writer presents varying positions and then a personal view on the policy. The writer concludes that despite many problems associated with or attributed to multiculturalism, Canada is better off with the policy in place.
From the Paper "Since it was adopted as a public policy in 1971 by the Liberal Government, multiculturalism has remained a controversial subject. Sociologists Fleras and Elliott (2002) have surveyed a broad range of arguments and positions in their book Engaging Diversity. They reveal how complex the issues are and how impossible for one to hold just one perspective."
Abstract The paper discusses the recent suggestion by a black university professor in Toronto that a special school for just for black students is necessary to combat inherent racism is the inevitable result of well-intentioned but ineptly managed multicultural policy. The paper contends that the idea that racism could be lessened by a segregated educational system is perhaps the ultimate example of what is wrong with the current culture. The paper maintains that Canada has become more a Babel of ethnocentric, solipsistic and racist enclaves, pampered by a guilty white liberal elite, than a truly multicultural or liberal community.
Abstract This paper examines current sociopolitical attitudes in Canada about cultural diversity, which are generally conducive for achieving a Canadian society that fully accepts multiculturalism. Unfortunately, progress is not being made at an even pace in all areas of the country. It looks at how, in order to address this, Canada's national education system should take the lead in setting a multicultural example for the entire country.
From the Paper " It is evident that current sociopolitical attitudes in Canada are generally conducive for achieving a Canadian society that fully accepts multiculturalism, but progress is certainly not being made at an even pace in all areas of the country. In order to address this, Canada's national education system should take the lead in setting a multicultural example for the entire country. This can be achieved by cultivating multicultural awareness and acceptance in Canadian classrooms through course content and curricula, while emphasizing that cultural diversity is a beneficial reality that needs to be understood and accepted, not a problem that needs to be resolved. "
This paper gives an overview of multicultural issues relating to deaf education in the U.S., identifying relevant issues and citing practical implication of the current research.
Abstract This paper provides a critical review of the peer-reviewed and scholarly literature to identify relevant multicultural issues involved in the education of deaf children in the United States today. A discussion of the practical implications for a deaf education classroom based on the critical review of the literature and application of the research is provided in the conclusion.
Outline:
Review and Analysis
Background and Overview
Deaf Education in a Multicultural Classroom
Steps to Improve Education in the Deaf Classroom
Conclusions and Implications for Classrooms
From the Paper "In recent years, as deaf adults began participating in and directing the policymaking deliberations concerning the education of deaf children, these longstanding concepts and erroneous assumptions concerning the needs of deaf students were transformed somewhat, but the process has taken longer and required more effort than anyone might have expected. For instance, in recent years, 'Descriptions of deaf children as disabled persons needing auditory and speech rehabilitation began to fade. In their place, descriptions of deaf people as an ethnolinguistic group arose, where the young need 'bilingual education' using ASL as the medium of instruction, not 'special education' using invented or artificial languages or mechanistic methods. This cultural view of deaf people, existing alongside recent realizations of the multicultural nature of contemporary American life, has given rise to a new deaf education pedagogy, termed bilingual-bicultural (or bi-bi) education' (Flood et al., 2005, p. 313). The introduction of these educational techniques has also introduced yet another misconception concerning the education of deaf children. The implications of these trends on education in an increasingly multicultural deaf classroom are discussed further below."
Abstract This paper discusses multicultural barriers to nurses. The paper begins with an overview of the relationship between cultural differences and health care outcomes. The paper also examines communication difficulties, and racism and institutional discrimination. The paper concludes with a discussion of the need for culturally competent care.
From the Paper "Nurses are confronted with multiple barriers to quality care when working in the multicultural environment. The relation of cultural differences to diverse health care outcomes..."
Abstract This paper describes a method for improving instruction in multicultural classes that uses the classroom learning environment. The paper discusses the effect of the classroom learning environment on student performance and the components of such an environment that should be taken into account.
From the Paper "With the growing diversity of the student population in the United States, almost all teachers are likely to be confronted with the challenge of at least one student who comes from a minority background during their career. In order to ensure that teachers are able to cater to the diverse needs of the students in multicultural classrooms, researchers have highlighted the importance of the classroom learning environment in students' overall performance. In addition to the organization of the physical classroom environment..."
Abstract In this article, the writer examines and contrasts various views on Canada and multiculturalism. The writer discusses the view that Canada is a mosaic compared to the view that deep conflicts exist between the French and English, and the Inuit Indians.
From the Paper "Politicians and sociologists alike often use the metaphors of a melting pot, a garden or a mixed salad to describe nations that are essentially multicultural and diverse. These metaphors were given a new twist by Canadian Prime Minister, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, at the start of the twentieth century. Laurier described visiting a magnificent cathedral in England that was made of marble oak and granite. It is the image of the nation that I would like to see Canada to become. For here I want ... "
A look how multiculturalism is portrayed in children's literature and how in countries like Canada, the authors of such books for children, seemingly miss the mark.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 5 sources, 2005, $ 106.95
Abstract Critical paper conveying how multiculturalism in children's literature often reflects an American and British theoretical foundation that does not suit the Canadian case. Introduction to a movement in education that deconstructs previous children's literature but that in its ideology may miss the point of what children's literature should endeavor to create in a positive curiosity concerning different cultures. Several theoretical pieces and examples from children's books on African-American, Chinese and Aboriginal themes to show several weaknesses in a much politicized campaign.
From the Paper "In the last three decades, much has been made of the need to promote multiculturalism and also, the goals of anti-racism, by way of children's literature that should encourage the child's positive awareness of different cultures. This seems particularly important in the wildly multicultural environments offered by cities such as Toronto where children should be encouraged to acquire an interest in other cultures according to an ability to understand and appreciate what is different. "
A discussion regarding the cultural diversity prevalent in our schools today, and the inability of the current school system to deal with the issues of a multicultural student body.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, 2005, $ 35.95
Abstract This paper discusses the adolescent in a multicultural and ethnic school system. According to this paper, American schools are increasing in cultural diversity, but remain based on standard majority student norms. This paper reports that teachers and educators employed by this school system, are ill equipped to deal with the growing present needs of the culturally diverse student body.
From the Paper "There are an increasing number of children from diverse backgrounds entering the US school system. Projects for the future (Hodjkinson, 1985; Sue, 1992 as cited in Holcomb-McCoy, 2004) indicate that "the majority of children attending public school in the year 2020 will be children-of-color or children from diverse cultural, ethnic and/or linguistic backgrounds." Many school professionals, especially counselors, are unequipped to deal with the problems facing the students, teachers and parents in their role as counselor and consultant. This is such a growing concern that the American School Counselor Association adopted a position statement urging school counselors to take action in order to assure that all students, those from traditional as well as culturally diverse backgrounds have access to appropriate services and opportunities."
A look at a perspective on multiculturalism that sees it as something that society should embrace and as the best way for individuals to find equality and stability within society.
2,250 words (approx. 9 pages), 6 sources, 2006, $ 89.95
Abstract As countries such as the United States and Canada have experienced mass immigration in the past several decades society has developed a theory that multiculturalism should be embraced. This paper discusses the view of some theorists which holds that individuals within various cultures should be allowed to continue to be a part of their cultural group, focusing on the group as a social structure from which they can derive support and socialization.
Abstract This paper discusses how multicultural students in public schools are taught. She explores teaching methods used in multicultural education. The author seeks to understand what it is like for students and teachers to learn and teach in a multicultural environment. She concludes that multicultural learning provides academic and social benefits to students. She explains the factors of race, gender and ethnicity in multicultural learning. Finally, she examines the new multicultural method of involving parent involvement in their child's schoolwork.
Table of Contents
Teaching Methods
Project Reach
The Multicultural Heroes Project
Multicultural Reading and Thinking (MCRAT)
Multicultural Literacy Program (MLP)
Opinion of these Programs
Students and Teachers in a Multicultural Environment
Race, Gender and Ethnicity in Multicultural Environment
Parent Involvement in Schoolwork
Conclusion
From the Paper "In addition to these educational benefits, it is noted that these students have higher self-esteem because they understand the value and importance of their own cultures and in doing so they can appreciate other cultures. Students also find these types of interactive curriculum fun and exciting, this encourages school attendance. In addition, students in these programs have an increased desire to socialize with children of other races when they are outside of the classroom.
Multicultural education can be very challenging for teachers because most multicultural curriculums require days of training and hours in preparation just to teach a lesson. Teachers also have to make sure that students are learning the basic curriculum of the school. However, teachers who have implemented these various programs have found that there own perceptions about different ethnic groups had changed. These changes in their own perceptions have allowed them to teach more effectively to all their students. In turn, students are more comfortable with teachers and are more apt to ask questions, which encourage learning."
