CI5121

In this course we will explore the manifestations of culture and power in education. We will examine the ways in which culture is a mediating factor in the educational achievement of underrepresented students. We will explicate the relationship between home/community and school cultures; and illuminate the detrimental impact of subtractive schooling practices. We then explore the theories and research that have shown the importance of integrating students' interests, knowledges, and experiences-cultures-for increasing student engagement and achievement. Our examination of culturally relevant pedagogy we will move beyond an understanding of "culture" within education as the "celebration" of ethnic food, songs and customs. Instead, we shift toward a more complex understanding of "culture" that takes into account the influences of ethnic culture, youth culture, and popular culture.