Singh, Monica

Reaching Beyond Boutique Multiculturalism

Keywords: multiculturalism, awareness, curriculum

Abstract

Living in a culturally diverse country as we do, it is vital that all students feel as though they are acknowledged and represented in their classrooms and school environments.  It is also important for students to discover the differences and similarities that they share with cultures that are different than theirs.  This research paper investigates attempts at embracing multicultural material in~several classrooms I~have observed.  Many of these efforts, however, have been at the boutique multiculturalism level, which is essentially highlighting the four F’s of culture: food, festival, folklore and fashion.  This study attempts to discover various methods that teachers in the Primary/Junior area can successfully incorporate multicultural resources into their classrooms, as well as connect them to the curriculum being taught.  Data was collected through one-to-one interviews with a primary grade teacher as well as a former teacher, vice principal and principal who is currently a professor at OISE/UT.  Preliminary analysis suggests that success at integrating multicultural resources into the classroom and the curriculum depends upon individual teacher awareness, initiative and willingness to undertake challenges that may arise when dealing with certain issues.  In addition, if a school-wide multicultural awareness is not in place, integration of it into the school environment is often non-existent or dependent upon specific teachers to provide their time and expertise.

Acknowledgements:

There have been a few particular people who have been extremely supportive throughout my research process that I am truly grateful for. I would firstly like to thank my research supervisor, Dr. Daphne Heywood, who has been extremely thoughtful, sensitive and patient throughout the development of my research. Her awareness and expertise in the area of multicultural education is a true inspiration. I would also like to thank my participants who took the time to share their personal experiences that they have had in their professional lives. Finally, I would like to say a special thanks to my friends and family for being so encouraging and tolerant with me throughout this process.