It is important to have great knowledge of cultural diversity, especially for being prepared for having new students from other parts of the world. English classes are very dynamic and in this field, work in groups is in everyday lesson plans.
Individualism and Collectivism are two aspects that have a great influence on our students' behavior in the classroom. Both have positive and negative sides. If we teachers learn how to use the positive part of these two paradigms we will get great result in our students developing with English.
In the case of having new students, we have to communicate them (students and their parents) how our class works and also ask them how they had worked in their original culture. This will help us to avoid any misunderstandings.
If we have "collectivism" oriented student we have the responsibility to increase their "individualism" side and adapt this method with individualism students who have to work more with their collectivist side.
In my opinion, is fundamental to include collectivism in the classroom because it helps students gain self-confidence and also develops many values in our students such us, making friends, work together, respect others, etc.
Like I wrote before in this article, teachers need to try to adapt and develops skills of these two topics. Students need to be prepared to interact in cultures which practice individualism and collectivism.
Try to understand each of your students, remember that each one of them are different worlds trying to "keep going" in a universe with more and different worlds. Be their SUN.
What methods do you use in the classroom to adapt to Individualism and Collectivism?
Hello Kelly, I agree with you. As teachers, we should help our students in order to interact each others. I like my students can perform some plays in order to work in group.
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