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Embracing students’ cultural origins, experiences, and viewpoints into the teaching and learning process is a key component of culturally responsive pedagogy. Through it, all students will feel appreciated and can thrive academically in a welcoming and inclusive learning environment. Students’ interest and engagement in the classroom can be greatly increased by incorporating their cultural backgrounds and experiences into the learning process. This creates a sense of belonging and validation for them (Howe, et al., 2021). Culturally sensitive pedagogy also encourages students to investigate different viewpoints and confront preconceptions, which fosters empathy and critical thinking. It helps close the achievement gap and enhance results for students from historically underrepresented groups by fostering a welcoming and inclusive learning environment. In the end, culturally sensitive teaching enhances learning while preparing pupils for success in a varied and interconnected society.
According to my experience, when I was in grade 8, there was a chapter in the history subject and that lesson was one of the toughest concepts to understand because of it’s theme, which was closely related to culture, religion and ethnical background of citizens of the nation, my professor made sure to bring that cultural discussions and include every student in the class to give examples from their ethical background, language and religion. With the help of this strategy, inclusive classroom was established, the lesson was crystal clear, and every child got the sense of belonging.
As Joanne discussed in the class about “All My Relations,” It automatically brought sense of belongingness in me being in the country, personally. That got me emotional, but I learnt how important it is to make everyone feel their worth. Being in the new country there are several breakdowns that international students go through, however if you have people like Joanne around you who try to keep you sane, make you believe they are there; no matter what, and make you feel that they care for you is something that actually students crave for. In my teaching practice, I will definitely, and I used to make every child feel included, acknowledge their challenges, their achievements, and their needs most importantly. No matter who you encounter with, if one knows how to make a relationship, should also know how to strengthen that and build it long lasting. That eventually comes with care and understanding towards them. In a classroom environment, students as well as teachers come from different ethnical background and have their own challenges, I will always make sure to acknowledge everyone so that they gather sense of belongingness and enjoy learning and teaching respectively.
Reference:
Howe, E. R., Johnson, S., & Te Momo, F. (2021). Effective indigenization of curriculum in Canada and New Zealand: Towards culturally responsive pedagogies. Journal of Contemporary Issues in Education, 16(1).
Well said, Tanya. From your analysis, you must have a deep understanding and personal connection to the concept of culturally responsive pedagogy because it focuses attention on the transformative impact of incorporating students’ cultural backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints into the teaching and learning process. Engaging every student and making each and every one share their individual experience from their different backgrounds gives a sense of belonging, inclusiveness and understanding. Just like the personal experience shared by Joanne’s teaching philosophy which emphasizes the importance of making students feel valued and cared for. As educators, just like Professor Bernita practices, we must strive to create a supportive environment that addresses students’ emotional needs and fosters a sense of community and belonging.
And so, as a current student aiming to be an educator soon, I must ensure I have a thoughtful and empathetic approach to teaching, focusing on creating meaningful connections with students and promoting their holistic development and academic success.
Well explained Tanya, this context is offered successfully illustrates the transformative potential of culturally responsive pedagogy in creating welcoming and encouraging learning settings. Teachers may give every student a sense of validation and belonging by incorporating their cultural backgrounds and experiences into the teaching process. This improves understanding of difficult ideas and encourages critical thinking, empathy, and academic involvement. This context emphasizes how inclusive teaching methods have a significant impact on each student, especially those who come from various backgrounds or are dealing with particular difficulties. Building relationships, showing compassion, and understanding in the classroom are crucial to creating a welcoming environment where each student feels respected and able to reach their full potential both academically and personally, and I love your viewpoints.