Recognize, Relate and Respect!
“Issues of race and culture are critical in today’s educational contexts at every level- including pedagogy, curriculum, and teachers” (Cross, 2003).
Reading this article reminds me of another book I read, “Through students’ eyes” by Karen B. Mclean Donaldson, because it explores the many issues that arise within the education system and classroom environment. Racism is experienced by many students from those who are closed minded and not accepting of others. Students come from many walks of life, some being from different cultures, religions, social economic status, and race which can pose a challenge on creating an inclusive classroom. According to various literature the school systems primarily consist of white people as educators. For those teachers who are not open to diversity and accepting of all people, this can have a lasting impact on society. The book discusses the different ways such as the use of art which teachers can incorporate in the classroom to explore and educate students of diversity and empower them to overcome racism. I believe that teachers, school administrators and the school as a whole have the responsibility of providing students regardless of race with a safe and accepting environment. Therefore, it is important for all teachers to be knowledgeable about the changes that are occurring in society and how to successfully teach in a multiracial classroom. The use of various strategies such as cooperative learning groups is effective when attempting to teach tolerance and acceptance and eliminate racism.
A.D
Cross, B. E. (2003). Learning or unlearning racism: Transferring teacher education curriculum to classroom practices. Theory Into Practice, 42(3), Summer, 203-209.
Reading this article reminds me of another book I read, “Through students’ eyes” by Karen B. Mclean Donaldson, because it explores the many issues that arise within the education system and classroom environment. Racism is experienced by many students from those who are closed minded and not accepting of others. Students come from many walks of life, some being from different cultures, religions, social economic status, and race which can pose a challenge on creating an inclusive classroom. According to various literature the school systems primarily consist of white people as educators. For those teachers who are not open to diversity and accepting of all people, this can have a lasting impact on society. The book discusses the different ways such as the use of art which teachers can incorporate in the classroom to explore and educate students of diversity and empower them to overcome racism. I believe that teachers, school administrators and the school as a whole have the responsibility of providing students regardless of race with a safe and accepting environment. Therefore, it is important for all teachers to be knowledgeable about the changes that are occurring in society and how to successfully teach in a multiracial classroom. The use of various strategies such as cooperative learning groups is effective when attempting to teach tolerance and acceptance and eliminate racism.
A.D
Cross, B. E. (2003). Learning or unlearning racism: Transferring teacher education curriculum to classroom practices. Theory Into Practice, 42(3), Summer, 203-209.