A lesson on culture: What is your cultural script?

R. Michael Walsh, Associate Professor, Communication Studies

Patricia Quintero-Hall, D.P.A., Multicultural Affairs Administrator

How would you define the word “culture” ?

Definition:The set of shared attitudes, values, goals and practices that characterizes an institution, organization or group

Why is it Important to know and understand your own culture?

Why is it important to know and understand your neighbor’s culture?

Why is it Important to know and understand our global culture?

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Family: Childhood & Extended FamilyCommunityPersonal (hobbies) Work Environment Spiritual Life

Patricia’s own culture & exposure to other cultures:

1. Immediate Familya) Colombian

i. Language ii. Musiciii. Foodb) Childhood Experiences

i. Glen Cove ii. Friendsiii. Socio-economic

2. Extended Family

a) American, Chinese, British, African American, Gay culture

5. Community

a) African American (Prince George’s County)b) White, Northern European husband

6. Personala) Travel

3. Work

a) Campusb) Welfare to

Work initiiave

4. Spiritual Life

a) Episcopalianb) Whitec) Generational

Other cultures:a) Prisonb) Drug addiction/alcoholismc) Mental illness

How many o f you have something in common with me – how many of you have been exposed to similar cultures?

“Culture is such an integral part of human existence that it becomes an invisible script that directs our personal lives.”

Hollins, E. (1996) Culture in School Learning

Final thought…

QUESTIONS ?

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How comfortable do you feel in sharing your cultural script (with colleagues/students)?How many cultures are represented in your classroom ? (name some)Is it important to know and discuss these various cultures in the classroom? Can this exercise be tweaked so that it can be used in your classroom?What are some other activities you can use to learn about the various cultures represented in the classroom?