Culture Shapes ' ' '

1
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
2
Acculturation Variables

• Age/amount of time spent in the process
• Quantity and quality of interaction
• Ethnicity or nation of origin (similarities
  between 1st and 2nd cultures)
• Language proficiency (L1 and L2)
• Similarity between cognitive learning style
  and teachers teaching style

3
7 Skills of Cultural Awareness

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

4
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

5
Surface Culture

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

6
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

7
Reprinted by permission from Colorado Department
of Education, ELLEN Toolkit, 2nd Edition

• ,
• August 6, 2009