Teachers must be aware of their own biases based on their cultural experiences. If they are not aware, then they don't know how their cultural influences may be impacting their instruction. Teachers can not teach their class as though it is a class they they would understand or enjoy, because all learners are not the same nor do they respond in the way that they would respond.

This is a very true statement. It is vital for teachers to be aware of their own cultures. My own child is multiracial, and we strive to provide her with cultural experiences in both race. This experience helps me as a teacher as well. I am able to relate to my students in a different way. One way teachers can incorporate cultural differences is by reading a variety of cultural books, inviting parents of different ethnic and cultural groups into the classroom, and provide opportunities for students to share their culture with the class.

It is important for teachers to strive for excellence for all of their students because it is the purpose of education. It is the duty of educators to build confident knowledgeable citizens out of students regardless of their background. To create this culturally sound classroom environment, teachers should avoid the use of "culture" to explain scientific racism in human behavior. Secondly, teachers should focus on the idea of teaching and learning to the very meaning and substance of culture. Having an understanding of culture and the diverse backgrounds of students affords the teacher opportunities to be theoretically and pedagogically effective.

Being aware of ones culture is a very important part of teaching any culture, to include your own. For one, many things that people feel are normal are in fact unique to its culture. When teaching, we may get excited about a certain event only to have students disengaged. Having knowledge of these things will help relate new material as well as experiences in a way that is engaging to all. For example, in one culture, going to the pumpkin patch in October may be normal. In another this practice may be unheard of. I would do an inventory of some sort of cultural practices, and have my student families do the same. In exchange, everyone would learn and be able to research things we all deem important in our lives.

I totally agree! I notice some of the teaches in my school have a disconnect because there upbringing was not as harsh as the students in their classes. They do not understand that there is a difference of cultural backgrounds within an ethnic community.

I agree with you and think that teachers should know about their own cultural practices. It might help give the teacher more activities to do in a classroom. I feel that it wouldn't hurt to research it and know your cultural background.

Being aware of one's cultural beliefs is important, but we should also respect the beliefs of others. Sometimes people become so engrossed in their beliefs that they forget how others have a right to practice their beliefs as well. I think that you have a point, but it doesn't always happen that others respect different cultural beliefs. Something also beneficial is to educate ourselves about other cultures.

I agree that teachers do fall short and are not learning how to include others cultures.

It is important that teachers are aware of their own cultures. Much history and relevant importance comes with being actively engaged in your own background. For instance, religion and personal beliefs are very important to know and to have in mind.