Monday, June 8, 2015
Ch. 1 Post
As a teacher and resident of a community that is predominantly White and middle class, I feel that chapter 1 and the cultural diversity information discussed throughout really gave me an understanding of the recent trends in immigration and continually growing diversity of the United States. When I reflect on my social studies instruction as a child, I remember discussing immigration as a thing of the past. I recall images of reading and watching videos of Ellis Island and talking about from which country our families came and why. There was no discussion of the continually large amount of immigration in the present age of America, and I believe many of the individuals who shared my educational experience (including myself) do not realize the current need to consider the current growing rate of diversity in our nation. When noting on page 5 that Illinois is one of the 6 states hosting the majority of immigrants, I see the increasing need to take a course such as this one and look forward to having a greater knowledge base in how to understand and support the diversities of individuals, especially in my classroom. Not only do I think it is important for me to learn this as an educator, but I see the immense importance to convey this information to my own students so they can grow in their understanding of today's diversity trends and how to support diverse individuals in their own lives.
One part of the chapter that really struck the compassionate cord in my heart is the discussion of WHY people are migrating to the United States. On page 3, Taylor states that these people are motivated by the hope of what the US offers and the fear of their current situation in their own country. Reflecting on the foundation of our country, the purpose of our nation was to provide that hope that is still inspiring and saving families around the world in dire situations. Instead of viewing diverse students and families as "hindrances" to our stagnate society, I think we as educators can look at these people and see our family members from generations past and strive to offer them what our country promises; not only for their good, but for ours, too. As much as I see a need for a common ground in order to relate (eg. language), we must strive to not "strip immigrants of identity" (p. 9) but continue to grow the forever "melting pot" culture of the US. This chapter has not only made me aware of diversity, but encouraged me to go the extra mile within my classroom and in my school to make a difference in these students' lives. I look forward to learning how to balance the forming the necessary and important patriotism in our students as well as fostering an appreciation and respect for cultural diversity.
My question to you as an educator is: as we see that 80% of teachers in the US are White, what do you think the general attitude toward immigrants and students of the greatest cultural diversity is? Are we offering open arms and being a refuge to human beings in need of just that OR are these people viewed as a back-burner concern in the education world overflowing with other stresses? Are we looking for ways to respect and show appreciation toward the students with diverse cultures or do we unintentionally strip them of their identities? In a respectful way, what do YOU see? Let's reflect on the mindsets of our communities and consider what we can do to be a positive and caring light amongst our busy and usually overwhelmed schools to help these individuals feel accepted.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Chapter 1 Response: I think you raise good questions about how we as classrooms teachers work with our students from other countries. We do not all treat them with the respect they would like but many times it is because of misunderstandings or lack of knowledge. At other times, it is teachers who are impervious to the fact that they are having difficulty with an assignment because of the language barriers and they do not wish to make any adjustments to help the student. Our country is not full of kind, caring individuals but I think that the majority of our teachers are accepting, just not educated on the differences and how to help the students moving into our culture. As good solution although not perfect, would be have ongoing professional development where they learn ways to cope and help these students as they adjust to our country. Unfortunately we have so many other "important" concerns that get in the way of being able to concentrate on this.
ReplyDeleteI like your connection to this course in regards to how we used to think about immigration. We see it as a thing of the past. The people who came here years ago are what make this country what it is today. Although that may be true, there are still immigrants that come to America, "the land of opportunity" for just that, opportunity to succeed wehere they previously could not. Because this is true for most immigrants, as teachers we need to provide the opportunity for the children. I believe that we try to appeal to all students with our curriculum, but it is nowhere near what it should be with thought of teaching to the diversity. In my opinion, we do not teach enough about diversity, nor do we teach to the diversity. In my own experience, we teach to the majority and to what we already know. Is it because we are uncomfortable with the topic, we do not care, or we simply do not know enough to do so? This is something to consider as we work through not only this course, but the through out our careers as well.
ReplyDelete