Reflection of Cultural Competency By: Nicole de los Reyes Math 112 Project 4

Educating Hispanic Children America is known as the melting pot, and the number of non-English-speaking is continuously growing. These students may not be getting as prepared educationally as students who’s first language is English. Why? Because there is a shortage of reports that show teachers that they must prepare these students more.

Some reasons for long term effects Many complain about math and its relevance in the world. So much more so when they don’t understand it. If a child can’t understand it, how are they supposed to be able to relate or understand? There is a language barrier.

Supporting/encouraging a child Help them understand math (or the subject) better. No goal is out of reach Don’t let them fall behind.

Math and real life situations Help the student relate to the math. Incorporate it with their culture. (this may take a little extra time, but it will help them succeed in the long run) Show them how it is used in everyday life. Incorporate more than one subject, tie in math with word problems to help with their reading.

Five steps to become more culturally competent 1. Value diversity 2. Build the capacity for cultural self-assessment 3. Be conscious of the dynamics inherent when cultures interact 4. Institutionalize cultural knowledge 5. Adapt service delivery to reflect an understanding of diversity among and with in cultures.

Breaking down the five steps 1.Value diversity- accept different cultures, this will help bring down “the wall” they may have towards math. 2. Build the capacity for cultural self assessment- understand the need for improvement and competence.

Five steps continued 3. Be conscious of the dynamics inherent when cultures interact- be open with their beliefs and how they interact 4. Institutionalize cultural knowledge- get the parents involved so they understand what their children are learning. 5. Adapt service delivery to reflect an understanding of diversity among and with in cultures. (this needs to be an on going development)

Conclusion Mathematics among other subjects effect children who come from diverse backgrounds, because they do not get the proper support and clarification in these subjects as those who speak English fluently. This causes them to put up barriers and the only way to bring them down in to be open about other cultures, embrace them and help the children better understand.