Cultural Awareness
By Sean
All aboard the Cultural awareness Train “Choo Choo”! How do you feel about cultural awareness? I will tell you about the facts and interviews I’ve done.
As most of you know, our study on cultural awareness is an annual event for the elementary grades [Pre-k-5th] at MMS. This year’s theme is the Chinese culture. I have interviewed students and teachers about their feelings and what they have learned about C.A.[cultural awareness] at MMS.
I asked Param [4th grader] about the past C.A.’s. He told me the cultures they studied in the past: Polynesian Islands, Africa, Water, Persia and that’s all he could remember. I also asked him his favorite thing about C.A. He said he likes memorizing the lines for the plays the students put on for C.A.
I asked Hamsa [3rd grade teacher] about what her students are learning about C.A. She said “They are researching more about China like the 4th graders.” I also asked her if they did any art on China. She said “I am trying to make more fun and interesting art projects for the kids to do.”
I interviewed Tegh [3rd grader] on what he likes about C.A. and he said “I like the ancient stuff and the art projects.”
I also asked him if he liked the theme of China for the C.A. He said “Yes.”
C.A. Day is recognized on March 21st and it’s about celebrating our awareness of China.
Here is information on “traveling” [learning about] a foreign country I have found online.
“As a guest in a foreign country, you need to be aware that it is extremely important that your conduct be appropriate for your new environment. You will need to adjust to different social and cultural norms and behaviors. After all, one of the basic reasons for studying abroad is to develop an appreciation of new cultures.
Each country has its own set of social customs, so you will have to do some research on your own. Also, remember that you do not have to figure this out on your own. Politely inquire about the local customs and be open and flexible when dealing with these differences.”
How do I FEEL about C.A.? It feels good to care and learn more about others. I like memorizing the lines
for the plays like Param.
Why is C.A. Important? “Cultural awareness is important to help members of a multicultural team identify where things may be going wrong or how to best leverage their differences. Without some sort of formal cross cultural awareness training it is difficult for multicultural teams to identify areas that need attention.”
Amalia doing chinese calligaphy.
Emma acting out her part, the Dragon Lord.
Carrie arranging our calligraphy pieces.