13 October 2020 Week 5: Cultural Paradigms
As we grow we are taught what is normal and what is abnormal. What we need to avoid, be afraid of, walk away from, ignore, smile at, talk about, and so much more. This on its own is were we can see some of the biggest cultural differences. Just in the way we act and react around each other.
During this lesson I was able to watch a few videos about what cultural paradigm is and see it in action as a group of men from Sudan who have come to America the first time. (Click here for a short eye opening video clip.) Many of their cultural indifferences have been a sad change for them, but many of the freedoms and technological advancements are what have brought them to America.
I have not had the chance to really understand the cultural difference myself by adventuring out side the United States, but I do have many friends that have made there way here and have found it to be different. They have changed some of there lifestyle to better fit what it is like here.
I served my mission in San Jose California and was given the opportunity to speak Spanish and immerse myself in the Hispanic community. I was able to learn of traditional foods that I would not have been eaten except though this experience. I was also able to understand the many differences in the standard of living and friendliness of many. I also found that unlike most Americans religion was normal topic in there day to day lives. You could walk up to anyone and they would gladly have a religious conversation with you.
I had not understood the importance of realizing the cultural differences and their importance in the classroom until today. Every student has a set of traditions and things they do and do not do. Until they understand what is and isn’t acceptable these TESOL students maybe in shock or confused about what is going on. I know that as I work to make sure that my students feel as though they know the culture they will be able to feel more comfortable in there new location.
Life in the Salt Lake Valley 