Alanna Wilson - Blog 2

Compared to the introductory chapter of our text, the section this week was relatively long and packed with numerous theories and ideas of various scholars. I found myself particularly interested in the section regarding “Forms of Capital” beginning on pg. 34.

The text mentions that: “Having cultural capital gives individuals access to exclusive social circles that those who do not possess cultural capital cannot penetrate”(p. 35). Being a part of the Ukrainian community from an early age definitely has its advantages. It was a privilege to be part of the English-Ukrainian Bilingual Program throughout my entire early/middle years schooling and even University education. Most students within the program were from working/middle class and immigrant families, and felt rather honoured, rather than to have the opportunity to be immersed in the language, cultural heritage, literature and customs especially within a school setting.

Further, it is suggested that: “Children exposed to high culture will adopt the language and knowledge associated with participation in these leisure pursuits, and as a result of this, may give cues to teachers that will result in their preferential treatment in the classroom”(p. 35). Later the text describes Bordieu’s argument: “…about how inequality persists in schools, despite efforts to base academic achievement solely on merit and ability”(p. 35). I do not necessarily agree with these statements as I personally did not encounter such treatment from the teachers within the program. As part of the program, students were encouraged to attend special assemblies, workshops and field trips. Although it may have seemed like we received “special treatment”, I believe that we still received the same attention and dedication from our Bilingual teachers as a non-bilingual student would receive.

Discussion Question:

In relation to the discussion of Cultural Capital within the text, do you agree that students enrolled say within an Immersion or Bilingual program receive special treatment from their teachers within the classroom/school?