Complexities of Culture
The learning in this session is based on Zaretta L. Hammond's framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of culture adapted from her 2014 book, "Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain." The session will explore the multiple layers of culture: surface, shallow, and deep, and contextualize the various ways that culture presents in our classrooms, school communities, and system levels. By exploring concepts like Individualism and Collectivism, participants gain a greater understanding of how culture can shape the identities of the students and families they interact and engage with. The session also examines the culture of oppression that exists within the system of education and asks participants to reflect on and identify the ways in which educators uphold systems of domination such as white supremacy, colonialism and patriarchy through policies, procedures, and pedagogy. Participants will be challenged to disrupt their own cultural understandings in efforts to decolonize the system of education.
Related Resources
Learning from Diverse Voices:
Member Spotlight