Racism,
sexism, any biases and prejudices are
the consequences I will expect for the children and families with
whom I work with while I also experience specific "–ism(s)" in my own
life (Derman-Sparks
& Edwards, 2010). One specific example is
knowing I am an African American female and I have twice the level of
discrimination to endure. I
hope to learn more of my own bias, in order not to take them into the classroom. Learning
who you are and what your background is gives you perspective on diversity. I know
that having a better understanding of the issues, I can better explain to children
and families, to help them understand, how damaging the problem of prejudice
and racism can affect an individual’s pride and confidence.
My most valuable asset for working with children and families from
any background is my desire to be the best anti- bias teacher I can. I have
learned through this course that diversity is a way of life and I want any
child and their family to feel secure, to know their children will be safe. I desire to help children
understand other diverse cultures and to show every child that their culture is
acceptable. In my family culture, I was brought up to see people for what they
are and not the color of their skin so; it will not be problems for me to learn
the cultures of another’s. It is essential as educator to get rid of any
misconceptions, with accurate information to develop more positive attitudes;
to learn empathy and passion for teaching all diverse cultures (Derman-Sparks & Edwards,
2010).
Derman-Sparks, L.,
& Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias
education for young children and ourselves.
Washington, D.C.
Kathleen,
ReplyDeleteGreat posting. Everyone has biases in them, but the way a person handle it is the question. This course has helped all of use to examine the feelings of bias we may have. Also, I think we have a better understanding of how to teach in an anti-bias classroom setting. We would know to listen carefully before responding to children bias remarks. Good Job!!
Ida,
Colleague Kathleen:
ReplyDeleteYou have pointed out an important truth in your blog. The fact that we are of different race and being females make the level of discrimination twice as much to endure. However,as we gain a greater understanding on how to deal with misconceptions, biases and prejudices, our outlook on life changes and we can use our wealth of knowledge to celebrate and embrace diversity in the classroom in very positive ways. Thank you for your post!
Sharon