What is "culturally relevant pedagogy"?

Culturally relevant pedagogy is fundamentally about connecting educational practices to the cultural contexts of the students. This approach emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse backgrounds of students, allowing for a more inclusive and engaging learning environment. By integrating students’ cultural references into the curriculum, educators can enhance students’ motivation and sense of belonging, as they see their own identities reflected in the material being taught. This method not only supports academic achievement but also fosters critical thinking and empowerment among students by affirming their cultural identities.

In contrast, options that focus solely on standardized testing, discourage cultural differences, or promote a uniform curriculum do not align with the principles of culturally relevant pedagogy. These approaches can inadvertently marginalize students' cultural identities and fail to recognize the richness that diversity brings to the learning experience. Instead, culturally relevant pedagogy seeks to break down these barriers and create a more equitable and responsive education system.