Cultural Background

For children to excel in a classroom, they must be valued there and share in the dialogue of learning. Delpit (1992) encourages the participation of all voices in the classroom. This fosters greater understanding not only of the curricula but of various people and cultures as well. Taylor (1987) offers educators a framework for becoming more insightful observers in multicultural settings:

• Differences between cultures are often perceived as threatening.

• Feelings of apprehension, loneliness, or lack of confidence are common when visiting and experiencing another culture.

• First-hand experience is the best way to understand the many subtleties of any culture.

• What is logical and important in one culture may seem irrational and unimportant to another.

• In describing another culture, people tend to stress differences and overlook similarities.

• Stereotyping due to over-generalization may be inevitable among those who lack frequent contact with other cultures.

• Personal observations of others about another culture should be regarded with skepticism.

• All cultures have internal variations.

• Cultural awareness varies within individuals.

• One's own sense of cultural identity often is not evident until one encounters another culture.

• Cultures are continually evolving.

• Understanding another culture is a continuous process.

• One should understand the language of a culture to best understand that culture.

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