ERIC Number: ED184977
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1979
Pages: 21
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Using the Cultural Models Approach in Studying the Multicultural Experience.
Koiva, Enn O., Ed.
The paper describes how social studies classroom teachers can use the cultural models approach to help high school students understand multicultural societies. The multicultural models approach is based on identification of values which are common to all cultures and on the interchangeability and transferability of these values (universal constants) from one culture to another. Twelve universal constants have been identified: survival of small cultures throughout history, integration versus separatism, immigrant dilemmas, cultural heroes, national and cultural symbols, senior citizens, home, hospitality, marriage, death, modern versus traditional values, and political dissent. Examples for the cultural models approach are taken from the cultural, social, and political experiences of Estonians in America. The developers believe that because the model focuses on universal values it is useful for helping students understand the values and experiences of other cultural groups as well. Students are directed to examine the 12 universal constant features within a base group (in this case Estonian Americans) and then compare them with the same features in another cultural group. For each of these 12 universal constants information is presented on background, pertinent considerations, and activities including research reports, role playing, analyzing primary source material, creating folk stories, and preparing ethnic foods. (DB)
Descriptors: Cultural Activities, Cultural Awareness, Cultural Pluralism, Educational Objectives, Ethnic Groups, Ethnic Studies, Learning Activities, Models, Multicultural Education, Secondary Education, Social Studies, Teaching Methods, Values
Estonian/American Culture Models, RFD 1, Andover, CT 06232 ($5.00 looseleaf)
Publication Type: Guides - Classroom - Teacher
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Office of Education (DHEW), Washington, DC. Ethnic Heritage Studies Branch.
Authoring Institution: Connecticut Estonian Society, Inc., Andover.
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A