Aisling Kennedy EDUG733 June 30, 2011 Growth Statement Through my studies in Multicultural Education, I feel as though I have

a heightened awareness of the many cultures to which I belong as well as my many students. A few weeks ago, I would have easily described culture as merely ethnicity; however I now know that this is not the case. Through our examination of race, ethnicity, social class, gender, disabilities and sexual orientation as special interest groups studied and presented by different groups within my class, I have gained valuable information to better understand the range of background of my students. On the first day of class, we were explicitly taught that we could not teach multicultural children before we first understood our own background and cultures. I didnt fully understand this statement until after I had completed my own autobiography, which forced me to not only think about my family and cultures, but also delve deeper under the surface. In writing the paper, I was forced to analyze my values and ethnics. I had come to believe that my cultural lenses had not influenced me but honestly it became evident that they are difficult to ignore and see beyond. As much as I wanted to say I have completely grown apart from societal and family influences to form my own, I recognized that they still play an elemental role. Preparing and writing the autobiography was a worthwhile experience, and I think it will have positive influence on my teaching style and methods. Thinking about and understanding the background of my students will greatly facilitate my

ability to help them succeed in the long run. It has opened my eyes to the array of factors that shape an individual. I think this course is particularly valuable since the topics discussed are sensitive issues that teachers and administrators often try to avoid and overlook instead of embrace and cherish. This course will serve as a valuable assert to further my teaching career and has already enlightened my daily thinking and understanding of those around me.