Training and Development

A culture creates context for behavior by providing reinforcements and punishments for each discrete behavior. Recognizing this helps educators and students appreciate how culture shapes behavior, fostering a deeper understanding of social dynamics.

Culture influences our learning. Not only does it affect our learning, but it also shapes the meaning of the words. Our culture can be considered a background against which words and new learning take place. They can be thought of as the background sculpture. This influence has profound implications for our education and understanding of this world. As we all have our own cultural weights, in collaborative environments like social interactions, interviews, and learning activities, an initial agreement must be established to make the experience more productive.

Cultural tendencies shape how children participate in education. To engage students effectively in the learning process, teachers must know their students and their individual academic abilities, rather than relying on racial or ethnic stereotypes or prior experience with students of similar backgrounds.

Culture’s influence on student behavior through shared values, beliefs, customs, and social norms helps educators recognize their role in creating inclusive environments that make students feel valued and motivated to support diverse students, fostering confidence in their teaching approach.

Essential attributes of cultural effects on student behavior:

Communication styles (verbal and non-verbal)

Learning preferences and study habits

Classroom participation patterns

Authority relationships with teachers

Time management approaches

Group work dynamics

Achievement motivation

Conflict resolution methods

Variable attributes that differ across cultures:

Acceptable physical distance in interactions

Eye contact and body language norms

Individual vs. collective learning orientation

Competition vs. cooperation emphasis

Expression of opinions and disagreement

Time orientation (linear vs. flexible)

Gender role expectations

Family involvement in education

Cultural influences manifest through the following actions:

Home environment shaping initial behavioral patterns

Community values affecting educational priorities

Religious beliefs impacting conduct and interactions

Language patterns influencing communication style

Social hierarchies determine respect expressions

Traditional practices affecting attendance and participation

Cultural identity affecting peer relationships

Generational values impacting technology use and learning approaches

Understanding these effects helps educators recognize potential challenges in creating inclusive environments and adapt teaching strategies to effectively support diverse student populations, acknowledging that cultural influences can sometimes complicate classroom dynamics.

The sense of belonging, community, and purpose that comes from this style of learning is enormous. It also encourages students to make a difference within their own communities. Accessing the skills and stories of the wider community can be a simple way to include culture in the curriculum.

Culture focuses on the knowledge of ethics, norms, traditions, etc. The success of any culture depends on society’s modern inventions. Both play significant roles in the development of culture; they are interconnected.

References:

https://www.ohsu.edu/education/foster-respectful-and-equitable-education-free

Foster Respectful and Equitable Education (FREE) | OHSU. https://www.ohsu.edu/education/foster-respectful-and-equitable-education-free