What are the key features of culturally responsive teaching?

Culturally responsive teaching is centered around the understanding that students’ backgrounds and experiences affect their learning. Therefore, recognizing students' cultural backgrounds and integrating them into lessons is crucial because it helps create a learning environment that is inclusive and supportive of all learners. This approach acknowledges the diverse cultural attributes that students bring to the classroom and uses those elements as a resource for teaching, thereby making learning more relevant and effective for each student.

When teachers incorporate elements of students' cultures into their curriculum, they foster a sense of belonging and respect among students, which can enhance their engagement and motivation. This practice also encourages students to take pride in their cultural identities while learning to appreciate the diverse cultures of their peers. By valuing the various perspectives students bring, educators can promote an inclusive classroom climate that benefits everyone, supports academic success, and prepares students for a multicultural society.

This choice aligns with the principles of creating an equitable and responsive educational practice that meets the needs of all learners by validating and incorporating their cultural experiences into the teaching process.