Culturally Relevant Teaching…a Global Perspective

Supporting non-native English speaking teachers has challenged and developed my instructional pedagogy. Working with students and teachers in the Middle East has reshaped my understanding of culturally relevant teaching. As a reading specialist, I viewed culturally relevant teaching as the incorporation of authentic literature by African American authors. It also included filling my reading lab with books, pictures, and posters that featured children who looked like my own children. As an administrator, I encouraged teachers to consider culture beyond racial or ethnic lines and incorporate popular texts that were relevant to the current generation of students. As an international consultant, I consider teaching culturally relevant when it includes texts that affirm positive depictions of girls and women, highlights a rainbow of hues that represent cultural pride and heritage.

Educators who Love to Travel

Literacy Learners, Inc. www.lavoulle.org