Addressing the needs of a multicultural class

All those engaged in education, teachers, librarians, ICT experts, and administrators alike, are aware of how culture impacts the learning and participation process. A multicultural class is no longer the exception – it is the norm. This session addresses cultural diversity in class through dialogue with the above groups.

An 18-year old in Paris is said to have more in common with an 18-year old in New York than with his or her own parents. True as that may be, in terms of similar lifestyles and use of modern technology and social media fads, there are still cultural differences among youngsters, which a higher education learning environment allows to surface. All those engaged in education, teachers, librarians, ICT experts, and administrators, are aware of how culture impacts learning and participation processes. A multicultural class is no longer the exception – it is the norm. A multicultural class is not limited to ethnicity or nationality of students and teachers, nor is it confined within the physical walls of a classroom. It involves additional dimensions that shape behaviors, perceptions of social structures and civic responsibilities, gender roles, religion and race. It is also catalyzed by the means of communication, where language and technology are critical. It is characterized by differences in students’ and educators’ thought processes and values. This session will bring together educators, librarians and technologists in an effort to discuss the needs of a multicultural class and the means to better address them collectively, and thus enhance intercultural understanding.