Multicultural Education

Standard #1: Learner Development: 

The teacher understands how learners grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.

(Essential Knowledge) 

1(d) The teacher understands how learning occurs -how learners construct knowledge, acquire skills, and develop disciplined thinking processes--and knows how to use instructional strategies that promote student learning.

(Narrative): An ethical teacher who supports multicultural education creates a classroom environment that is safe, supportive, encouraging, and leaves room for both productive struggle and success. Multicultural education is further supported through....

-cultural pluralism

-reciprocal understanding

-positive view of self and others

-advocating for all students

-value student's historical background

(Reflection): The interview linked below was completed by a good friend of mine named Shayla Huynh. Shayla and I have remained friends since Kindergarten. Her parents came with nothing to the United States from Vietnam to build a better life. Shayla's Vietnamese name is Uyen My but throughout her education, she was addressed by her English name. Shayla is bilingual and her parents do not speak English very fluently, but always welcomed me into their home with open arms. Shayla consistently excelled in school and is currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Biochemical Engineering from Oakland University. Shayla's educational experience proves that all students, even those that come from a unique cultural background or home life, can excel with the right support and encouragement.