Studying Ethnic and Cultural Groups

The Studying Ethnic and Cultural Groups provides information to guide the study of cultural groups.  Davidman and Davidman (1997) explain that the attempt to understand multicultural education is a lifelong journey, and that at the beginning of that journey, preservice education students will realize that there is a lot they didn't know about inequality in American life (e.g., African-American and Mexican-American history).  Davidman and Davidman further assert, "Ultimately, the development of an increasingly sophisticated multicultural/multiethnic knowledge base lays the groundwork for the empowerment process, the development of cultural pluralism and intergroup harmony, and the ability to achieve the multicultural goal of freedom" (p. 21).  This section provides information on variables within groups on which individuals differ, key concepts to guide the study of cultural and ethnic groups, and examples of literature studies to aid in this study.  By using the key concepts and related information as a guide, one can attempt to understand the perspectives of cultural groups.  This understanding can lead to cultural sensitivity and responsiveness.  

Reference:

           Davidman, L. & Davidman, P.T. (1997). Teaching with a multicultural perspective: A practical guide. New York: Longman.