M. Cylar
Culturally Responsive Teaching
September
11, 2012
Review – What did you learn?
As I reflect on the
three prior chapters, I find chapter 4 to be the connection that ties
everything together. Noel outlines how
culture ultimately affects how a child learns. She goes on to emphasis that
students eventually blend in with the “dominant” way of thinking (Noel, p.125).
Another point made was that student’s gradually begin to abandoning what makes
them unique/their characteristics.
Teachers have
such a tremendous influence on students, so how they perceive their ability to
learn has lasting effects. As outlined
by Noel, teachers view students based on different factors (i.e. income, race,
culture, education etc.). “Deficiency
Orientation” and “Difference Orientation” are the two major student views. The term “Deficiency Orientation” when viewed
according to education simply refers to absent or lack of something. In this
situation the teacher places the student’s shortcomings on his or her home
life, community or the student themself.
Whereas, “Difference
Orientation” is just the opposite because the teacher examines the students
learning style verses instruction.
Therefore, looks
for opportunities to build on what the student already knows (Noel, pp. 127-
129).
Students learn
differently and they should not be looked upon as “one size fits all”. One of the main goals of educators is to
study students learning patterns in an effort to be able to teach various
strategies that will be most beneficial to each student. Noel defines learning style as “that
consistent pattern of behavior and performance by which and individual
approaches educational experiences.”
Whereas, “learning strategies” are the various skills sets put into
place to assist students with achieving academic success (Noel, p. 133). Reflect – What did it mean to you?
Although, the prior chapters were very informative and allowed me to step back and examine my own philosophies and teaching techniques this chapter by far has been the most beneficial to me. As I read the section on physical setting, I really had to reflect on the atmosphere of my own classroom. Social setting/grouping and learning senses helped me to not only examine my students various learning styles but mine own as well (Noel, p.134 – 135).
Refine – How will you use the information in your classroom?
As an educator I believe it is very important to get to know my students and their family. I believe every student can and will learn but it just will not be at the same rate. Each day I try to make it a point to tell my students that they are intelligent and I believe there is nothing they cannot achieve if they take their time, reflect on what’s being asked of them, and study.
Consequently, I will make it a point to observe, take note of, and make changes when possible to my classroom environment. When teaching whole group I will be more conscience of each student’s learning pattern. While it is/has been my philosophy to promote student participation, I will continue to observe and encourage students to take part in their learning. While, differentiation of instruction is evident in my classroom this chapter has made me realize there’s still much more I need to do to help assist my students in achieving their maximum potential. The majority of my students are ELL’s who learn best through visual aids, and then I have a few students who’s learning style is most effective through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic, at the same time other students learn best through a combination of the learning senses. Since I am aware of the various learning styles it would be beneficial for me to work toward setting up learning centers to assist me with identifying my students learning intelligences (Noel, pp. 142 – 155). Adding more culture books to my classroom library, incorporating acceptance/citizenship into my lessons, and creating more lessons that celebrate my student’s cultures will assist me in promoting a more positive learning environment.
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