Saturday, May 25, 2013

Perspectives on Diversity and Culture



Greg ( AFRICAN AMERICAN MALE)
Definition  of culture- Culture is a system of values customs and norms that are passed down directly or indirectly from one generation to the next, typically these traditions are expected to tie communities together and insure that necessary information is passed down to future generations to insure a successful  well rounded life.  
Definition of diversity- Diversity is a characteristic where things are not the same.  It’s also the absent of uniformity. 

Sandra( BLACK CARIBBEAN WOMAN)
Definition of culture According to Sandra culture is the way of life for people. For example, the way they dress, eat; interact with each other, religious belief, and language.  
Definition of diversity- Sandra also said that diversity involves different ethnic racial background.

Janine( FROM AN ITALIAN AMERICAN FAMILY)
Definition of culture- Janine stated that culture is a mixture of tradition and heritage.  Moreover,  children experience school and society expectation of culture and then they are faced with home culture that is expected by their family.
Definition of diversity- Janine believes that diversity relates to differences in people such as their internal and external belief system. 

The aspects of culture and diversity I have studied thus far in this course were answered by the individuals I interviewed. For example, in relation to the definition of culture the interviewees made a valid point in that it’s a mixture of tradition, language, and value systems that is personal to each individual. Their examples of diversity were also answered in a practical way.  I respect their views and I’m happy they decided to answer my questions. I did not feel they omitted anything. They answered the best way according to their understanding. The definition they gave once again affirm to me that diversity and culture are influenced based on our experience in the world. As usual in all my courses I continue to learn more about what it takes to be a well-rounded educator. Understanding cultural and diversity is another tool that will benefit me in my profession.   

        

3 comments:

  1. Hi Georgiana. You received great answers. One aspect of culture and diversity that I felt was omitted from my response was that of family culture. However,it was great to see that Janine mentioned mentioned that children can be faced with a culture at school and then another culture at home. Prior to this assignment, have you discussed culture and diversity with any one them?

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  2. I really like how they put their definition of culture and diversity. It is a mixture of all that was mentioned. As an educator, we have to grasp the understanding of culture and diversity so that we can better understand our children and families.

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  3. Hello Georgiana,
    When I read your interviewees’ definition of culture, I associated culture to a toolbox handed down from a generation to the next and containing indispensable tools to navigate our society. Since society is in constant evolution, the tools in the box take on different shapes or may have different purposes from a generation to the next. For example, the mechanic’s tools have warped into computer chips whose reconfiguration of computer commands will repair the car engine. I also appreciate the definition of diversity as “the absence of uniformity” and the expression of what is within and without an individual. I enjoyed reading your post.

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