Creating a Culturally Responsive Classroom

Expecting students to leave behind all that they are when they enter the classroom isn’t just unrealistic, it’s unfair. But that’s what is often expected of students: Show up and be prepared to take what’s offered. Edtech, however, has delivered the means to provide more culturally relevant classroom instruction. When a lesson is relevant, the student becomes a learner, their interests are sparked and their brains ignite, and that is how we close the achievement gap, says Alicia Discepola, a digital literacy and learning specialist for Millville Public Schools in New Jersey. Culturally responsive teaching focuses on students’ cultural knowledge and frames of reference. So, if we’re going to meet the needs of our students and communities, we have to know who they are. Technology provides ways to do that every step of the way. Use translation tools to communicate with families who don’t speak English. Use live streaming to virtually bring families into the school for special events or to showcase learning. On websites, include text-to-speech and translation tools, provide accessible information through multiple means, like interactive images. Look within and examine your own cultural biases and judgment. Have tough conversations with yourself and see where there’s room to learn. Our students’ cultures, interests and backgrounds can no longer be left out of learning. When we know better, we do better, and we have the power and the potential to involve and empower all learners.