The Art of Culturally Responsive Teaching

     When thinking about culturally responsive teaching, the first thing I thought about when I heard those words was "oh, like creating an inclusive environment for all students". This is pretty much where I felt that it would end. Maybe this was me being semi-close-minded, but it was genuinely my first reaction. I was surprised when I attended the class on Monday that this just was not the case, and I knew I would get some new insight into a topic that I was not really aware of. 

    It turns out that culturally responsive teaching is much more interactive than I thought. Things like getting to know where your students are from, how they learn the best, and what you can do in your classroom to welcome that diversified population all go into culturally responsive teaching. Hanging the flags of home countries for students in your classroom can be something simple, yet extremely welcoming for students that may not be from the United States. A student seeing their home nation's flag hung up in their classroom truly gives them a sense of pride and welcomes them into your room. And of course, this is our goal as educators, to be welcoming of all students and provide an opportunity for all of them to learn the best they can. 

    Another instance in which I did;t really realize that culturally responsive teaching could be shown is through our curriculum and the lessons that we teach. Throwing in examples of problems or situations that we may be using in our classroom that encompass traditions or notable points from cultures all around the world. When students can see these examples being incorporated, it immediately resonates with them, which makes for a very impactful experience. We may also include lessons or activities that incorporate other cultures outside of the ones we are consistently exposed to in our classes here in America. It goes much beyond the attitudes that we bring into our class. While these do indeed affect how our students feel in our classroom, it's the things we include and go above and beyond on to show that we can learn and grow as students while being culturally responsive in our teaching techniques.