Diversity and Cultural Differences Social Class and Poverty

OSDE – SES

Dr. Sabrina Salmon

Cross-Cultural vs. Diversity Training

• Underrepresented Groups

• Well-Represented Groups

• Perceptions

Cross-Cultural Characteristics

• Culture

• Values

• Customs

What is the definition of class?

• social or economic position• income• education• prestige• power and control• culture• lifestyle• race, religion, ethnicity• self-image

4 Quadrants Activity The United States is a classless and egalitarian country.

•Strongly Agree

• Agree

• Disagree

• Strongly Disagree

People Like Us: Social Class in America

Household Income Which states have the highest household

incomes? Which states have the lowest household

incomes? How does Oklahoma rank in reference to the

median income in the US? What are some possible educational

implications of various income levels?

Communities What are some social factors that are prevalent in all

communities? How might teachers engage parents or guardians and the

community in educational activities? What are some assumptions that you have about the

students who will be in your classroom? Enter your prospective school’s zip code in the following

link: http://www.claritas.com/MyBestSegments/Default.jsp?ID=20&menuOption=ziplookup&pageName=ZIP%2BCode%2BLookup

How have your perceptions about class changed after watching “People Like Us” and completing the previous activities?

Culture and Class Critique Write a critique of culture and class in the US.

How will your awareness of socioeconomic factors influence the following:

Instructional practices; Relationships with students, parents, and staff

members; and Professional development goals.

References Payne, R. K. (2005). A framework for understanding poverty

(4th ed.). Highlands, TX: RFT Publishing. Payne, R.K, DeVol, P.E., Smith, T.E. (2006). Bridges out of

poverty: Strategies for professionals. Highland, TX: Aha! Process, Inc.

Van Soest, D., and B. Garcia. (2008). Diversity education for social justice: Mastering teaching skills (2nd ed). Alexandria, VA: CSWE Press.

U.S. Census Bureau, (2011). Weighted Average Poverty Thresholds.