ERIC Number: ED596048
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 101
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 978-0-4387-7559-6
ISSN: EISSN-
EISSN: N/A
The Development and Enactment of a Multicultural Unit with Fifth-Grade Students: An Exploratory Case Study
Mankovich, Kelly Lynn
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, University of Pittsburgh
This exploratory case study involved the development and enactment of a multicultural unit. As the population of the school continues to become more diverse there became a need to educate students to become more culturally aware. The main purpose of the study was to raise students' awareness and appreciation for cultural diversity through carefully selected multicultural books. Three books were chosen for their authentic and diverse cultures and literature styles. In addition to the selected books, other components were identified including student projects, multimedia resources, and guest speakers. The secondary purpose of this study was to consider the contrast between the mandated curriculum used in previous years, and this multicultural unit designed to provide opportunities for students to develop their cultural competence. This case study provided note-worthy findings that supported the idea of incorporating multicultural literature in the classroom. Students had a variety of reactions to the unit. Students' self-confidence rose and participation increased. Students proposed a call to action, remained after class to extend discussions, arrived early, and demonstrated empathy. The final finding was the contrast of the mandated curriculum to the multicultural unit. The multicultural unit offered: (a) writing opportunities, (b) complete texts, (c) speaking and listening skills practice, (d) authentic learning experiences through culturally relevant guest speakers, (e) personal student connections, (f) exposure to unfamiliar cultures, and (g) high interest lessons. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Elementary School Students, Grade 5, Instructional Design, Multicultural Education, Cultural Pluralism, Reading Material Selection, Books, Student Projects, Multimedia Instruction, Student Attitudes, Writing Assignments, Interpersonal Communication, Communication Skills, Listening Skills, Culturally Relevant Education
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 5; Intermediate Grades; Middle Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A