Reflection Paper #1: Intro to Culture, Communication & Conflict
The purpose of the Week 1 readings was to lay a theoretical foundation around culture, communication and conflict, and then use these ideas to critically analyze real life situations. After reflecting on these materials, consider the following points (in 2-4 pages):
In the reading “Multicultural Education, Transformative Knowledge & Action,” the author Dr. James Banks discusses the notion of what is called “positionality,” which has to do with social markers such as our race, gender, class, age, etc. Based on this concept, how has your life been affected by your “positionality?”
Dr. Banks also names what he calls the five basic types of knowledge. Based on this list, which are the 2 (two) most influential types of knowledge in your opinion? Why?
In the article “We Can’t Teach What We Don’t Know” the author Gary Howard outlined seven methods of cultural dominance. Based on your understanding of history, which of these methods do you think are most effective in establishing cultural dominance (choose your top 3)? Explain your choices.
What types of cultural conflicts have you experienced? How were these conflicts resolved?
Inclusion of quotes and/or references from Week 1 course readings are required to earn full credit on this assignment.
