Cultural Diversity In History Curriculum

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Cultural diversity is a very integral part of society as a whole. Diversity is defined as "the existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society". This kind of variety is necessary for any societal growth. I completely agree with the statement "The inclusion of cultural diversity in the history curriculum is an asset to learning and the overall educational system". Cultural studies should be a mandatory course in every school. There are countless benefits to including these kinds of education in history curriculums. Teaching this subject would give kids more respect for other cultures and their struggles. It would also help them learn more about their own culture and ancestry. Cultural education could also vastly improve …show more content…
If you were to teach about the oppression of the African American race, it would give students in that class an appreciation for the lives now. Teaching them about the differences of each culture and what makes them important to history would also help them realize that these cultures have much more to offer than just differences. "The moment in which a cohort of year 8 pupils land in Seville and realize that Spanish has a life beyond the textbook, the year 7s visiting Normandy and noticing that people behave and react in familiar ways but the small differences are what really matters ... These are character building experiences that bring out the best and worst in all of us and from which we learn so much." This excerpt from an article by José Picardo explains this idea very well. Student, when allowed time to learn about the strengths and values of other cultures, become much more well-rounded and understanding of other people. They will treat people nicer and with more respect because they understand where they come from and what they have to …show more content…
It benefits everyone involved. Every culture has something to offer or something that makes learning about it worthwhile. No heritage is "better" than another. Each kid takes something away whether it be a newfound respect for another group of people or a better understanding of their own family and ancestry. Studying cultures causes personal growth and can even reduce the amount of prejudice or racism towards a group. "As our country continues to exhibit great diversity, the need for understanding and accepting the differences among all people has never been more important." This knowledge is even more important now considering that the U.S. is becoming more and more diverse. Cultural education prepares you to deal with and interact with members of cultures that you've never personally encountered before. It not only affects the way you view yourself, it also improves the way you look at others and their struggles. This makes cultural studies one of the most important parts of any school

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