Culturally Relevant Pedagogy
Cultural Relevance
Our classroom is founded on culturally relevant pedagogy. Additionally, we recognize the advantages and struggles of ALL individuals. We will be focused on the potential of inclusion and diversity, as a safe space for students to gain multiple perspectives and to use this information to make THEIR OWN decisions and opinions.
“Culture is central to learning. It plays a role not only in communicating and receiving information, but also in shaping the thinking process of groups and individuals. A pedagogy that acknowledges, responds to, and celebrates fundamental cultures offers full, equitable access to education for students from all cultures.
Culturally Responsive Teaching is a pedagogy that recognizes the importance of including students' cultural references in all aspects of learning (Ladson-Billings,1994).”
Some of the characteristics of culturally responsive teaching are:
§ Positive perspectives on parents and families
§ Communication of high expectations
§ Learning within the context of culture
§ Student-centered instruction
§ Culturally mediated instruction
§ Reshaping the curriculum
§ Teacher as facilitator