Mod 7 Discussion: Cross Cultural Awareness

Teaching For Change: http://www.teachingforchange.org

It is importance as a teacher to address culture in the classroom to students because this helps them to self-explore and express their unique perspective, promoting empathy, understanding and self-advocacy. When students see themselves in the curriculum more than just their sense of self, they also learn and understand their place in society, by helping them have a sense of belonging and acceptance in their community.

I remember last year in my high school class I introduced the student to "the stars beneath my feet." The story dealt with a young African American boy that was going through the trenches. With home life, society and friends and how a teacher in his school promoted a change in his life. This book was on diversity and change. 

              Through this lesson student learn to accept their cultural experience and learn to adapt and change. This story empowers students to how to adapt to new situations and circumstance just like the boy in the story. It also builds a need to continue learning and to self-regulate their emotions in responses to change and uncomfortable situations. The lesson through class discussion and critical thinking encouraged acceptance within the students. I felt that the lesson prepare most of the students to thrive in any exponentially diverse world.