An Intercultural Approach to Create a Culturally Aware School Environment

A common problem that educational institutions face in todays multicultural society is how and to what extent multiculturalism needs to be incorporated into the schools curriculum and environment. Recently, there has been a noticeable challenge of attracting the attention of Roma students and many instances of cultural conflicts happening in the school. These issues are in part resulting in a high drop out rate among the Roma pupils. Being the coordinator of religion, language and history subjects, I propose that an intercultural approach needs to be taken in order to begin the process of fixing these problems. Nieto (2000) states “…that only by reforming the entire school environment can substantive changes in attitude, behaviours, and achievement take place.” (p.412). Revolving on the basis of equality, changes need to occur in teaching methods and students need to feel supported and encouraged by their teachers. By following an intercultural approach to reform the school, these issues can be combatted and a culturally responsible and motivating school environment can be created.

1.2 Background of Intercultural Education

“Intercultural education aims to deepen student’s knowledge and appreciation of different cultures.” (Luciak, 2006, p.77). It is both relevant and essential in preparing children for the diversity of the world, and in promoting equality. In schools, it is a process that must be implemented on a daily basis and constantly adapted to reflect the students. The teaching methods, what is included in the curriculum, to parent involvement and co-curricular activities offered, an intercultural approach can be incorporated into all parts of a school environment. For schools to do this properly, they must develop a s...

... middle of paper ...

... one gains when being taught through intercultural approaches will help in living democratically in an ethnically diverse society. The plan to create a motivating and culturally aware school environment is optimistic, not impossible. Through open dialogues, cooperative learning, supportive teachers and an enriched curriculum replete with minority cultures and religions, it could happen. If all these approaches were to be executed without error or limitations, the end result could be the ideal school environment. Unfortunately with limitations in regards to financial funding and the willingness of parent-teacher involvement, it is improbable that all the problems at hand can be solved in the near future. This plan does not rely heavily on funding, but rather the responsibility is given to the teachers. All a school can do is start the process, and hope for support.