1) Chapter 1 from Exploring Cultural Competence discusses at length what this term actually means explaining that it is not necessarily a new concept but one that has been reframed. The authors discuss 10 foundational issues that need to be considered. As mentioned the first 5 emphasize your thoughts and beliefs that influence your external interactions with other people. The next 5 focus on your internal process that constitute your thoughts.
a) Provide a brief summary of the first five (external) and your general reaction and then provide a brief summary of the second five (internal) and your reaction. Did these resonate with you particularly in light of our increasing diversity and the challenges it presents both individually and socially?
b).
Describe the four practice areas of the Ready for Rigor framework in Chapter 1
Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain.
2) From Chapter 2: Culturally Responsive Teaching and
the Brain
a) The author describes two cultural archetypes, collectivism, and individualism. How do you see these operating in your classroom or community?
b) How can understanding different cultural archetypes make culturally responsible teaching more manageable?
c) Why is it important to understand the three levels of culture as discussed in the chapter? How can your understanding of these levels help you to understand the importance of culture and always keeping it in mind when working with culturally diverse populations?
d) What was your reaction to the discussion about sociopolitical context versus the culture of poverty? (pg. 31-33)
e) How does “implicit bias” work? For example what is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word Mexico or Saudi Arabia? If I would ask you for your first thoughts upon hearing either of these two what is the first thing that comes to mind? Most likely your mental map or schema kicks in and contributes to your response. Probably most importantly how do we change “implicit bias” –
Harvard University has developed an Implicit Bias test. Please take the test – click on
https://www.glaxdiversitycouncil.com/resources/harvard-implicit-association-test-iat/ for more directions and more. What did the results indicate about you?
3) (From Chapter 3: Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain) “Relationships are not just emotional; they have a physical component” (pg. 45).
–
Why is it important to understand the physical structures of the brain when
creating a culturally responsive classroom? Also, explain the implications each
“brain rule” has on culturally responsive teaching.
4) (From Chapter 4: Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain)
What are some ways you can examine your own deep culture?
What is one of your triggers?
What strategies from chapter 4 could you use to manage your emotions during an emotional interaction?
