Overview

Education in Cultural Perspective examines what it means to believe in and teach for the success of all students, in schools that represent racial, ethnic, linguistic and other types of cultural diversity and how this has changed over time in the United States. One focus is on the historical roots of assumptions and expectations about diverse individuals and groups in schools and in society. Another focus is on examining your own assumptions and expectations about yourself and others, and understanding what one’s identity brings to the classroom. We will also explore ways in which teachers can work to counter oppression and teach in ways that advance social justice. The emphasis will be on the historical shift in attitudes toward children, women and minorities; the rise of and challenges to a tradition of common schooling and teachers; teacher training; and professionalization.

Logistics

This course is typically offered in the Fall and Spring semesters. Some course activities are conducted in the course Blackboard ® site.

Course Objectives

1. Expand your knowledge of racial, ethnic, linguistic and other types of cultural diversity.

2. Understand why educational equality and academic success have historically been and are still difficult to realize for all students.

3. Engage in personal and professional growth that is catalyzed by the examination of your own cultural assumptions, expectations, and beliefs; explore how this cultural path informs your teaching and the ways in which you relate to students and others.

4. Develop knowledge, skills, and dispositions that will enable you to challenge existing and socially reproduced inequalities in education, successfully teach diverse learners, and foster a classroom and school community that values differences.

5. Observe, question and explore relationships between culture, beliefs and assumptions, school and classroom practices, educational policy, and the structure of society.