Course: EDUC – 6164-2

Week 3 Blog Assignment

Perspectives on Diversity and Culture

Joanne E Lynch

Date: Saturday 21^st September, 2013

     

       Individuals have perceived the notion of culture and diversity in varying but common ways. They also claimed that both (culture and diversity) are intertwined. It followed that I had the opportunity to interview two of my colleagues (one male and one female), and a relative (a female who was the youngest of the three), about their definition of culture and diversity. In fact, the various responses that were given are listed below.

Definitions for Culture:

1.      The way of life of a particular society or group of people.

2.      Anything that relates to a country’s historical background.

3.      The norms, practices, rules, values, language, and the general way of life of  people in the society.

Definitions of Diversity:

1.      Differences in the culture of the people.

2.      Conditions of the inhabitants’ lifestyle in society, which are different from each other.

3.      Dissimilarities in people’s lifestyle in society.

      Undoubtedly, the initial stages of this course focused on the comprehension of diversity and culture via social identities. The focal point was on the family in society, as well as, incorporating aspects of the early childhood field of education. Admittedly, the responses obtained from the interviewees reflected the dominant culture. For that reason, the concept is that members of society are the mass, or who swing more powerful than other groups. Likewise, it is shared or accepted without opposition by the majority of the population. For example, for families to feel valued and inclusion, the home culture and dominant culture will be created between both cultures (home and dominant).

      Furthermore, I have realized that people in the society are reared with traditions which are virtually difficult to be conscious of, hence, finding it harder to adjust to. In fact, this deep culture is comparatively slow to change, for instance, the people’s attitude towards life, religious and philosophical beliefs, and values in human relationships. However, although the definitions, given by the interviewees are descriptive and general, aspects of surface culture was omitted, because nothing was stated about the artifacts, costumes, holidays and food, since these are easily observed, taste, and defined.

      To be more precise, other people’s definitions of culture and diversity have influenced my own thinking about these topics, since it is very important for me as an early childhood educator, to consider the cultural background of children and their families, in relation to how feelings and emotions are expressed. Additional, positive attitudes and behaviors will be demonstrated by me, which will enable me to work effectively, cross-culturally, and value diversity.

                                                        Reference

Derma-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J.O. (2012). Anti-Bias Education for Young Children and

Ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children.