Culture Shapes The way

Culture Shapes. . . • • The way we think (cognition) The way we interact (behavior) The way we communicate (language) The way we transmit knowledge to the next generation (education) Adapted From Catherine Collier, 1998

Acculturation Variables • Age/amount of time spent in process • the Quantity and quality of interaction • Ethnicity or nation of origin (similarities between 1 st and 2 nd cultures) • Language proficiency (L 1 and L 2) • Similarity between cognitive learning style and teacher’s teaching style

7 Skills of Cultural Awareness The capacity to. . . 1…communicate respect 2…be non-judgmental 3…personalize knowledge and perceptions 4…display empathy 5…demonstrate role flexibility 6…demonstrate reciprocal concern 7…tolerate ambiguity

Deep Culture • Thoughts, beliefs, superstitions, religion • Concerns, hopes, fears, worries, ethics, and how you organize your thinking and world • Symbolic and intangible aspects of identity • Subtle interpersonal relationships as expressed in actions and words • Day-by-day details of life as it is lived

Surface Culture • • • Music, visual and performing arts, drama Holiday celebrations and folklore Food/drink Traditional dress Historical contributions Outward displays of behavior and identity

Cultural Differences/Similarities Cultural differences/similarities that affect student language, learning, and achievement: • Traditions and family values • Signs of importance and respect • Teacher-centered vs. student-centered classrooms • Perceptions of space and time

Reprinted by permission from Colorado Department of Education, ELLEN Toolkit, 2 nd Edition , August 6, 2009