Lexi Valcourt - Blog 5

After reading this chapter I feel I have a much better understanding of the role of the curriculum in our educational system here in Canada. The fact that every province and territory is responsible for their own curriculum creates differences in how curriculum is mandated in each province/territory. The teacher needs to cover all the topics in the curriculum for the grade he or she is teaching, but how they choose to teach this is up to them.

I really enjoyed the section on multicultural curriculum/education as I believe it extremely relevant to teachers here in Manitoba and across Canada. In Canada “the implementation of multiculturalism into education varies considerably.” (149) I was surprised to read that many schools across all the provinces and territories are offering instruction in Aboriginal languages. I think this is a fantastic way to promote unity, inclusion and is an excellent opportunity for students of all backgrounds. The government is working to evaluate and work towards social justice and anti-racist practices in education and has “developed documents that addressed teacher training, curriculum, staff development, and the creation of linkages between schools and communities” (163) This also included having marginalized voices be a part of the decision making, which I think is a step in the right direction. It also emphasizes the importance of “alternative ways of knowing” where we recognize that there are several other world views different from the dominant Western scientific manner and this includes Aboriginal perspectives. Aboriginal ways of knowing are centered on oral history, tradition, and practical application.

Do you feel you have been prepared to teach to diversity, incorporate Aboriginal perspectives, and include multicultural curriculum in your future classroom? How will you accomplish this