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  • Essay / An intercultural approach to creating cultural awareness...

    A common problem that educational institutions face in today's multicultural society is how and to what extent multiculturalism should be integrated into the curriculum and environment of schools. Recently, it has been difficult to attract the attention of Roma students and there have been many cases of cultural conflicts within the school. These problems partly lead to a high dropout rate among Roma students. As coordinator of the subjects of religion, language and history, I propose that an intercultural approach be adopted in order to begin the process of solving these problems. Nieto (2000) states "...that only by reforming the entire school environment can substantial changes in attitudes, behaviors and outcomes take place." » (p.412). On an equal basis, changes must occur in teaching methods and students must feel supported and encouraged by their teachers. By following an intercultural approach to school reform, these problems can be combatted and a culturally responsible and motivating school environment can be created.1.2 Background of Intercultural Education “Intercultural education aims to deepen the knowledge and appreciation of different cultures by the students. » (Luciak, 2006, p.77). It is both relevant and essential for preparing children for the diversity of the world and for promoting equality. In schools, it is an approach that must be implemented on a daily basis and constantly adapted to reflect the students. From teaching methods, what is included in the curriculum, to parent involvement and extracurricular activities offered, an intercultural approach can be integrated into all parts of a school environment. For schools to do this properly, they must develop a middle of paper... We win when teaching based on intercultural approaches helps people live democratically in an ethnically diverse society. The plan to create a motivating and culturally responsive school environment is optimistic, but not impossible. Through open dialogues, cooperative learning, supportive teachers, and an enriched curriculum filled with minority cultures and religions, this could happen. If all of these approaches were implemented without errors or limitations, the end result could be the ideal school environment. Unfortunately, given the limitations of financial funding and the willingness of parents and teachers to participate, it is unlikely that all current problems can be resolved in the near future. This plan does not rely heavily on funding, but rather the responsibility is placed on teachers. All a school can do is start the process and hope for support.