Practice What We Teach

In the chapter “Practicing What We Teach,” author Miles Irving took a scary step in proving to himself and his students that he could critically reflect on his own biases and be an activist in confronting those biases. What steps can we take to lead by example and let students know that we are practicing what we teach --- that we expect the same from ourselves and from our students.

I kindly confront students about their remarks that encourage stereotyping, bias, or racism. I try to remind them that these comments are based on misinformation and could have harmful effects on students and adults. What more can we do to make a lasting impact and a statement of personal reflection? 

Read this short blog about teachers as life-long learners.

The Arts as a Cultural Representation

Because students´ cultures are represented in various aspects of our larger national culture, this representation can be integrated into the classroom and curriculum without marginalizing its contributions. WTDC discusses ways of incorporating art and lyrics into language arts classrooms and art programs. Literature, art, music, and dance can portray language, emotions, power, and relationships. Using diverse forms of expression can help students feel connected to their learning, their peers, and their school.

How can we incorporate art, literature, and music into all areas of curriculum to represent the diversity present in our classrooms and engage learners by allowing self-expression in a safe environment.

How Do We Empower Students?

Communicating with students is facilitated when teachers are culturally competent, reflective, and understanding. While teachers can avoid conflicts by reflecting on and modifying communication practices, some students may continue to be confrontational in order to feel empowered because they often feel powerless in their schools and communities.

How can teachers help students feel empowered in a positive way?

In this video, a student discusses communication, confrontation, and empowerment.

Multicultural Education

Multicultural education is more than highlighting the contributions of a variety of ethnicities in history, literature, or music. In order to connect with our students and make them feel represented and valuable in their schools and communities, the contributions of all ethnicities should be equally integrated and represented in the curriculum. As educators, we should show students how their culture has impacted mainstream culture and how they have changed the historical landscape without solely relying on stereotypical characters and cultural traits. This is a great challenge, but by educating ourselves, making careful curriculum choices, and building relationships with our students, teachers can begin creating multicultural environments where all students can achieve.