10/25/2021; W07: Cross-Cultural Students in the Classroom
- Yeira Akemi Cervantes
- Oct 25, 2021
- 2 min read
Learning about Cross-Cultural differences in the classroom is vital. I have talked about cultural paradigms and cultural differences before. But today, I want to focus on the implications of those in the classroom setting.
I think something that should be clarified is that no educational system is perfect. They are just so different. Let's see some examples:
Asian students, as collectivists, tend to be less expressive in the classroom and they participate less. They will never want to suggest that they are being disrespectful to the teacher. That is why, when Asian students visit an American University, to them, it may appear as if American students were crude or inconsiderate. Even though they like American university education. The following picture is a good example:
On the other side in the United States, education is less formal. Students can exchange ideas with teachers, they sometimes speak during the class, and so on. Which may seem unthinkable for Asians. In the United States, they are egalitarian, meaning that the teacher is not superior to students.
In my opinion, both systems have good elements. I think that respect for teachers is key! And I also think that school as something less formal is excellent. I think that not using uniforms is a good example of how we can decrease formality in education. In Mexico, public schools use uniforms and private schools don't. How funny, don't you think?
REMEMBER, students can't learn when they feel anxious or stressed!
What do you think that could happen if we combined these two elements?
Again, it's about our paradigms. It does not mean students are trying to be disrespectful or exaggeratedly disciplined. It's just how we have been taught!
To avoid prejudice towards any student, here is a golden tip from Dr. Ivers for all TESOL teachers:
Whenever a student is from a different place or ethnic group or something does anything weird, you have to give them the benefit of the doubt. Even though you may be interpreting it negatively, it may not be meant negatively.
Hopefully we can more open to how our students have been taught and help them adapt easily to the new world which they enter to.
Hi Yeira:
I really liked your post and the approach that you did about multicultural classrooms. Related to your question: I think that is essential to work hardly looking for a more EGALITARIAN classroom, I think it can be possible if (as teachers) we try to strength the relationship student - teacher and showing a real interest in their cultures and customs. Good Post!!! Greetings!