Family science nights: Venues for developing cultural competence. (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dani, Danielle E.; Harrison, Lisa M.
• Is Part Of: Teaching and teacher education. Volume 103(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: Cultural awareness -- Teacher attitudes -- Qualitative research -- Preservice teacher education -- Clinical experience -- Rural appalachia; Teaching -- Periodicals; Teachers -- Training of -- Periodicals; Enseignement -- Périodiques; Enseignants -- Formation -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 371.10205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tate.2021.103370
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0742-051X

Abstract

Abstract: Reports of educators' deficit beliefs about culturally and linguistically diverse students and students with low socioeconomic status abound in the literature. Not surprisingly, deficit beliefs are postulated as the main barrier to the implementation of culturally relevant practices and the development of teachers' cultural competence. This study explores how teacher preparation programs can leverage science nights to support the development of teacher candidates' cultural competence. Findings indicate that science night experiences and critical reflection around them promoted teacher candidates' cultural competence in different ways. Highlights: Family involvement events are valuable clinical experiences for teacher education. Recognizing personal deficit views about diverse families is critical to teachers. Authentic interactions with diverse families seed counternarratives.