I really enjoyed watching these videos and seeing how other people view Americans, both good and bad. The ideas others have formed about us, as American people, can really be something for us to consider and think about. I think it is also interesting to see the perceptions other countries have within their own cultures of the paradigms that exist. As a teacher, what can I do to be certain that all cultures will feel included, wanted, and needed to ensure feelings of unity? Do we behave in ways that may cause other students to feel uncomfortable in a classroom or possibly even unwelcome?
A few years ago, my husband and I traveled to Peru. We spent
10 days there. We learned so much and met so many different people, as our
daughter was there too, and introduced us to many people she met on her
mission. We also met her boyfriend, who then became her fiancé a short time
after meeting him, and then they were married here in Arizona almost two years
ago. Our trip and our new son-in-law really opened our eyes to many different paradigms
among the two cultures.
The Peruvian people are very friendly towards everyone. They
give hugs, kiss you on the cheek, and welcome you with open arms. They give you
the best of what they have and go without if they must. The people do not burp
and find it very offensive if you do. There are not many rules enforced or
obeyed when it comes to driving in Peru. The transportation system is what they
depend on, so we walked to a lot of different places as well, because having a
car is a luxury. The homes do not have any heating or air conditioning. They also
lack big refrigerators, so they go to the grocery store every day. Groceries
are sold in a marketplace by individual people. You must ask to purchase
something from them and pay them individually. The food is fresh and tastes so
good. Peru is a country that does not have a lot of money, but young people are
taught to be hard workers. Peruvians think Americans are rich and have a lot of
money.
Due to this experience, I have realized that some people see
Americans as not being very friendly. There are not as many people that give of
what they have so easily. Some manners of young American people come across as
being rude. American people take many things for granted without even knowing
or realizing it. Most people have refrigerators and freezers with food and reliable transportation. Yes, there are many Americans that have a lot of money, but
the majority do not, and most people work hard to earn what they do have.
With these differences, I look forward to having a classroom
that is a place where cultures will be embraced, and learning will be rewarding.
A chance for questions to be asked so students can learn from each other and
not just the teacher. Opportunities given to share personal experiences allow
others to understand individual cultures and backgrounds. As a teacher, I will help students
feel loved and spark a desire to attend. Encouraging participation from all
students, regardless of their apprehensions. Building trust and confidence will
ensure unity within a safe classroom to feel that mistakes are okay to make and will allow for
the desired growth that is desired by everyone. Understanding cultures will be a priority within my class to allow each student to gain the assurance that who they are, what they know, and where they are from matters to everyone in the class.
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