It is important for teachers to understand the theories of ethnic identity in order to build a classroom environment free of prejudice, racism, or discrimination. According to Bennett (2014), in order to develop a sense of respect and appreciation for other cultures, races, and ethnicities, one must first have a strong sense of self. In other words, one must be able to identify themselves as part of a certain ethnic group, such as Mexican American, African American, or Chinese American, before being able to respect other ethnic groups. The best place for students to be exposed to other students, languages, cultures, and ethnicities is in the classroom. School is definitely where students begin to work with other students and begin to
It is important for teachers to understand the theories of ethnic identity in order to build a classroom environment free of prejudice, racism, or discrimination. According to Bennett (2014), in order to develop a sense of respect and appreciation for other cultures, races, and ethnicities, one must first have a strong sense of self. In other words, one must be able to identify themselves as part of a certain ethnic group, such as Mexican American, African American, or Chinese American, before being able to respect other ethnic groups. The best place for students to be exposed to other students, languages, cultures, and ethnicities is in the classroom. School is definitely where students begin to work with other students and begin to