CHS252 Social Studies in Early Childhood Education: Ethnocentric Research Project – Unit 8 Assignment Solution

CHS252 Social Studies in Early Childhood Education

Unit 8 Assignment  

Ethnocentric Research Project

1. How might my personal history, background and experiences influence my relationships with children from diverse backgrounds?
2. How will this information influence my teaching practices?

Research has shown that biases creep into our relationships and interactions with others. Many times, people do not realize that they may hold biases toward particular groups. It is through the personal reflection of one’s own life, beliefs, and customs that we might be able to acknowledge them. Usually once we self-reflect and acknowledge our personal biases, we can manage them more appropriately. For this assignment, please reflect on your personal family history, background and experiences and respond to the two questions above.

Consider the degree to which cultural values and attitudes influence your beliefs (self) and then how they influence your relationships with others. To begin your thinking, re-read Strand #2: Culture. Then reflect on and use course resources in creating your project.

Part I: Self-Reflection

1. Reflect upon your family’s history
2. Country of origin – how many generations have been in the United States
3. Who migrated here, why, when, language(s) spoken, where settled, why there?
4. Research the origin of your name(s)
5. Describe two family treasures that represent your family’s cultural or ethnic heritage – why do you keep them
6. Reflect upon your experiences growing up – with family, neighbor, school chums

Part II. Relationships with Others

Please think about your personal beliefs about: Ethnocentric Research Project

1. Cultural, ethnic, linguistic, religious, economic and political differences
2. Philosophies related to:
3. Serving others
4. Inclusion versus separate education
5. Educational equity
6. Analyze your relationships with people who are different:
7. Are there groups of people with whom you know you have to work to develop a relationship? Why? Based on stereotypes?
8. What are your fears about potentially working with these children or their families?
9. What can you do to insure that your work with these children will be successful?
10. Venn diagram: As part of your relationship with others, please choose a friend who is from another culture and complete a Venn diagram comparing the two of you.

Assignment Format-Ethnocentric Research Project

1. Title page, table of contents
2. Personal history
3. Relationships with others
4. Venn diagram
5. Explicit response: “How might my personal history, background and experiences influence my relationships with children from diverse backgrounds?”
6. Explicit response: How will this information influence my teaching practices?