Cross- cultural competence

Cross- cultural competence/ Standard 1 Design and implement engaging and flexible learning experiences for individuals and groups/ Standard 2 Design and implement learning experiences that develop language, literacy and numeracy/Standard 3 Design and implements intellectually challenging learning experiences/ Standard 4 Design and implement learning experiences that value diversity/ Standard 8 Foster positive and productive relationships with families and the community/Standard 10 Commit to reflective practice and ongoing professional renewal.

I believe that every child in the classroom is equal, has the right to a quality education and the right to be in a safe environment (Queensland Government, n.d, p. 1). I know that there are students in the classroom with varied differences that I will need to research and acquire new knowledge of, so I can adapt my teaching practices to ensure I accommodate for each learner.

In the classroom I ensure other students become aware of the differences throughout the classroom so they have an understanding of each other and this creates an awareness of each diversity. I have achieved this by having a multicultural day involving cuisine, beliefs, values, customs, history, costumes/clothing to name a few.

To cater for the diverse learners in the classroom I use different learning styles and assessment appropriate to the learners needs. Some of the teaching styles I use with the students in the classroom are group work and peer tutoring. For this to be effective I also require the relevant resources to successfully teach the students. The assessment needs to cater for student diversity and enable the learners to show knowledge and understanding (Ashman & Elkins, 2008, p. 20).

I exhibit a positive attitude towards each student in the classroom regardless of their differences. As a result of my behaviour and teaching strategies students respect and value each other and their differences and understand they are all entitled to an education. With this prior awareness of individual differences students will also be able to effectively participate within a diverse society in the future.

I reflect on classroom routines to improve my planning and teaching for the future. I believe with my commitment to meeting the individual learning needs of all students in my classroom and applying differentiation, I will be doing my best to support each child in their journey of learning.

In relation to differentiation in a unit plan,
‘Your adjustment for learners’ column was quite comprehensive ‘(McKee, personal communication , June,2010).

‘Great assessment variation for our Indigenous students in the class’ (Kneen, personal communication, October, 2010).

‘Kym, well done for adjusting pedagogy practices for Vietnamese students in Physical Education learning experiences’ (Lapere, personal communication, December, 2009).

‘Kym created lessons where children experienced and valued each others’ diversity’ (Cox, personal communication, September, 2011).