Culturally responsive teaching is an educational approach that recognizes the importance of including students' cultural references in all aspects of learning. The eight competencies for culturally responsive teaching provide a framework for educators to create inclusive, equitable, and engaging learning environments.
By promoting student voice, setting high expectations for all learners, addressing real-world issues, and communicating effectively across cultures, educators can better support the academic and social success of diverse student populations.
Eight competencies for culturally responsive teaching:
Reflect on Your Cultural Lens
Examine your own cultural background, biases, and assumptions and how they affect your teaching.
Recognize and Redress Bias in the System
Identify inequities and actively work to challenge and change biased policies and practices in education.
Draw on Students’ Culture to Shape Curriculum and Instruction
Incorporate students' cultural knowledge, experiences, and identities into teaching strategies and content.
Bring Real-World Issues into the Classroom
Use current and culturally relevant topics to deepen learning and connect classroom content to students' lives.
Model High Expectations for All Students
Maintain and communicate high academic and behavioral expectations, especially for historically underserved students.
Promote Respectful Student Relationships
Cultivate a classroom environment that encourages empathy, respect, and collaboration among diverse students.
Communicate in Culturally Responsive Ways
Use communication styles and approaches that align with students’ cultural norms and support mutual understanding.
Collaborate with Families and the Local Community
Build strong, respectful partnerships with families and communities to support students’ cultural identity and learning.