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**************** Slide #21: Communication:-- Cross Cultural and Cross gender communication One of my courses dealt directly with cross cultural and cross gender communication. Inuit and many southern (Qallunaaq) cultures vary in critical ways and these differences can be at the root of ineffective communication A major dimension of cultural variability used to explain cross-cultural differences in behaviour is individualism-collectivism. Using the criteria set out by Gudykunst (1998), the Inuit culture is collectivistic. These collectivistic characteristics are shown in the emphasis on ÔweÕ identity; traditionally, Inuit people worked very much as a team where survival depended upon all working together (provided a handout listing the comparisons for each culture) Thus, research shows that there are many elements of cultural differences to consider when trying to understand behaviours of strangers during communication. What is important is that we take the time to reflect on cultural differences and understand the effects of various tendencies when trying to communicate, predict and interpret each otherÕs messages. |
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Slide #22 - Mindful The important thing to keep in mind is that your tendencies affect your communication with people who have different tendenciesÓ (p. 68). Instead of getting continuously frustrated with students who do poorly in school, teachers need to become more aware of the cultural and gender aspects of the students they teach. Being able to adjust our communication patterns is one way that we can ensure effective communication with others who differ from ourselves (Tannen, 1990). Teachers should also be willing to use resources such as other teachers and principals when dealing with difficulties in schools. Take the time to analyze our own personal tendencies as teachers and administrators, we will be better able to help students make wise choices in their educational paths. |
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| Slide #23 - Other areas discussed in the School Leaders section of the portfolio include those listed in the slide. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Slide #24 What can Teachers Do? Teachers need to use a variety of instructional approaches to increase understanding, motivation and productivity: brain based, multiple intelligences, learning styles, active learning, etc. Teachers need to wear many different hats or to teach using many different approaches. |
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Slide #25 - Teachers must investigate teaching practices. There is a need for teachers to understand culture and the unique learning styles of Inuit students with respect to how they impact teaching practice. Most classes have various levels in abilities and learning needs. Teachers need to figure out the best way to meet individual student needs. Individualisation is important. There is inconsistency between learning styles and teaching methods that may influence the dropout rate teachers of Inuit students should examine how their current teaching strategies and classroom structures are affecting dropout rates.
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