10/15/2021; W05 Culture Differences Concerning Time

Time is another excellent example of a cultural paradigm. It is different in importance from culture to culture, very different!

These differences can be easily represented by two terms: polychronic and monochronic. Polychronic societies are ruled by associations, family, and friends. And monochronic are usually more focused on themselves their time and the follow-up of their schedule.

Interestingly, most cultures are polychronic, monochronic on the other hand, are mostly occidental countries.

Now, what relationship does this have with the TESOL classroom?

Well, the teacher must realize that their students will likely come from different cultures, and as a consequence, they will have different cultural paradigms. For some of them, time and deadlines are not priorities when it comes to education. Or it could be quite the opposite.

Conversely, the teacher could either come from a monochronic or polychronic, and he or she should keep in mind that the differences they will have with their students must not hinder the student's progress and relationship with the teacher. Not always is the student trying to purposely be irresponsible, that's just the way he/she has been taught! This knowledge could help teachers be more empathetic.

In my case, I come from a polychronic culture. In Mexico, if you go to a social event with friends or family, the party will more likely start about an hour later. Honestly, it can be frustrating. But when you are the one who is running late because of an unexpected situation, that delay can save your life! Also, people are very comprehensive in these cases, which is something I will always appreciate.

On the other hand, I must say that I'm more of a monochronic. That is just my personality, I'm a perfectionist, I like to keep a schedule and good organization. And just how I understand that this is how I am, my personality; I must understand that my students might be different, and I should be supportive in this matter. I can be the one who helps them become responsible by being kind and sympathetic.