Cultural Identity

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Another aspect that teachers need to be aware of for the culturally diverse students is ones ‘cultural identity’. Cultural identity is formed by many aspects such as class and gender (Siraj-Blatchford & Clarke 2004, p23) and is what makes people individual; it is intrinsically linked back to groups and cultures (Lawrence, Brooker & Goodnow, 2012, p78). Each student will identify with a particular culture or group and each students needs and views will be different. It is the educators responsibility to foster these differences to assist with developing the students learning and ability to learn (Siraj-Blatchford & Clarke 2004, p24-25). The educator can also assist with acculturating the immigrant and refugee by providing Australian cultural experiences in …show more content…

Immigrants and refugees face the challenge of building their identity in a new country and can often feel isolated and disconnected from their original group. This can be heightened depending on the circumstances surrounding their experience with coming to Australia such as waiting for visas or stays in detention centres (Lawrence, Brooker & Goodnow, 2012, p78). The multi-cultural student, especially the underdeveloped can be subjected to discrimination in the playground and classroom, which can have negative implications for the development of ones identity (Siraj-Blatchford & Clarke 2004, p27-28). The teacher can assist and guide students to develop inclusive and caring behavior especially in early childhood and should always action any incidents promptly (Siraj-Blatchford & Clarke 2004, p27-28). The importance of maintaining ones identity is paramount to developing students’ self-esteem and a sense of belonging (Kids Matter, ND), with an increased self-esteem children are more likely to achieve academic success (Siraj-Blatchford & Clarke 2004,

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