During my reading of Ted Aoki’s Chapter 19 Language, Culture, and Curriculum, I began to understand the complex relationships between educational practices and the connected nature of language and culture. My professional experiences have shown me that culture and language are crucial in shaping curriculum. Each person’s live(d) experiences and worldviews profoundly impact their perspective on the planned curriculum. It’s essential to understand these diverse perspectives to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive education.  I have taught many students from diverse cultural backgrounds, including those for whom English is a third or fourth language and those who have led vastly different lives from my own. Despite these differences, I have found a common thread: everyone wants to be heard, seen, and given a chance to connect.

Aoki’s distinction between the Western and Indigenous worldviews resonates deeply with me. He illustrates that while the Western view often focuses on individualism, the Indigenous view emphasizes connectedness. This idea extends to the broader concepts of outer and inner space. As Aoki states, “The result is that there is likely to be more emphasis on the isolated individual in Western culture, whereas Indigenous cultures support inclusiveness and connectedness through the life force in all living things” (Language, Culture, and Curriculum … 1, n.d.) This concept profoundly resonates with me as it highlights the difference between focusing on individual accomplishments versus fostering meaningful connections with the world.

Photo by Georgia de Lotz on Unsplash

I believe there are now more pedagogical professional development opportunities than when I first became a teacher. This ongoing growth is essential as I continue my journey both as an educator and a person. I find it fascinating to learn how other cultures, different from my own, interact with the world. One of my greatest joys is engaging in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds and occasionally exploring different parts of the world. Each encounter not only opens my eyes a little more but also fuels my personal growth, enhancing my understanding and empathy. Having an open mind and being an eager participant in these experiences enriches me as a person and makes me a better educator.

References

Language, Culture, and Curriculum … 1. (n.d.). Retrieved July 16, 2024, from https://www-taylorfrancis-com.ezproxy.library.uvic.ca/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781410611390-24/language-culture-curriculum-1-2000-william-pinar-rita-irwin?context=ubx&refId=0638c21e-9175-4787-9194-3628589925c4