What does it mean to say that all individuals view the world around them through "culturally tinted lenses?" Why is it important for educators to understand this concept? Give an example of how a child’s behaviors in the classroom may be viewed differently by teachers versus the child’s family.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Although an individual's culture does not define who they are, it does influence the way in which they interpret the world around them. Behaviors that are considered odd or atypical by educators or teachers within the learning environment may be viewed as appropriate to individuals from other cultural backgrounds. It is important for educators to be aware of these differences in perspective and take them into account when working with children who are from cultural backgrounds different than their own. Student responses may vary, but one example of a child behavior that may be viewed differently by teachers versus the child’s family is being overly quiet and unwilling to participate. If a child is unusually quiet in the classroom and refuses to participate even when called on by the teacher, it would be useful for the teacher to know that the child's culture emphasizes the need for children to be seen and not heard. While the teacher may view the child's refusal to participate in a negative way, the child is simply adhering to the principles emphasized by his culture. Furthermore, the child's parents may not view his refusal to participate as a negative behavior as it is the way they have chosen to raise their child in the home. Being aware of these differences in perception is critical when working with children in the academic setting.