The Effects of Ism"s

“ The impact of race and racism continues to powerfully influence the life prospects of America’s children” (Derman-Sparks, 2010, p. 77). In my opinion, I think that Tina’s family was the one to influence her about the type of children she can and cannot play with and of course Tina did not come to realize this until later on in life. Tina’s parents did not want her playing with anyone of color, which I did not agree with because I think Tina should be allowed to pick her own friends regardless of their skin color. Also, I did not like the idea that Tina’s parents would treat her brothers better than they would her. I think when a parent has more than one child in the family all of them should be treated equally.  My personal experience with racism happened when I was 10. My uncle is black and his wife is white. So my cousin is of mixed raced. I was walking home with my cousin when we started talking about how the other children in her class had singled her out and made her feel bad about the color of her skin. She no longer wanted to be mixed, she wanted to be white. I said "You do know that you father is black don’t you?" She did not reply. I went home and cried because she made me feel bad about just the color of our skin, and how she let the other children get to her. My father wanted to go to the school to address this issue with the teacher and the children but I told him not to. My cousin later on told me that over one night she had realized that racism was wrong and that I was her best friend.   And at the end of the day, I always have to ask myself, why does race really matter? We are all humans, born to live and die, laugh and love. Be who we are and no one else. And that is what I am living now. Luckily I have never been racist though. Racism is stupid and useless. The most important thing to have is an open mind and an open heart. Color is irrelevant and does not define anyone.       Resources   Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

COLLEAGUE COMMUNICATION

What a wonderful course! This course on communication has been magnificent and with all the assistance I have had from each of my colleagues. One thing for sure that I found out about effective communication is it involves more than one person and my colleagues has showed that by responding to my blog assignments and my discussion posts. I have also had many encounters with classmates discussing the application assignments that have helped me gain a better understanding of what the assignment was all about. We worked together many times during the discussion posts, collaborating on answers and supporting each other with thoughtful comments.

Dr. Darragh, thank you so much for all the help and wonderful feedback you have shown throughout this course. You were brilliant!

I look forward to seeing many of you in our other courses as we continue on our journey.

Best of luck to you all!!!

Tracey

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Team Building and Collaboration

The adjourning phase of a team is that separation phase signaling the end of the project. At this phase the group usually reflects on its accomplishments as well as shortcomings towards the attainment of the goals (O’Hair & Wiemann, 2009). The hardest thing that I found out during the adjourning phase of my group was to leave the ones that I had established a trustful relationship with. In our group, there were several who had established supportive relationships to our advantage. As a group, we were there to support and to respect each other opinion and differences as we strive to accomplish our goal

High performing groups are usually difficult to leave because there is so much happening. Group members feel a great sense of satisfaction and eagerly look forward to making a difference. They are highly passionate about what they do so their contribution extends well beyond the allotted time for meetings. They have clearly established norm and the leader will remind members of these rules should there be any violation of these rules.

In our closing ritual, we would end with a social evening where we would bring along a dish and all members would partake. Also, small rewards will be giving to the group to show their hard work and appreciation

In my opinion, I believe adjourning stage is essential stage of collaboration and teamwork because it gives us the opportunity to reflect in order grow academically.

Resources:

O'Hair, & Wiemann, (2009). Real Communication. An Introduction.

Bedford/St. Martin's

Evaluation of the Communicator

According to O’Hair & Wiemann, 2009.  As a communicator I am influenced by both cognition and behavior. Cognition refers to those thoughts which I possess about myself and others whereas behaviors refer to the verbal and non-verbal messages and it affects behavior.

In my opinion, I think all three assessments produced the same categories of results. The similarity in the results was shocking to me. The two people who evaluated me was my sister who is an hair stylist and the other one was a co-worker. However, the two do possess a clear idea of my strengths and my weaknesses. They are fully aware of my reactions to various situations. While they were completing the assessments they both agree on the same thing pertaining me and also it made so much easier for them two to provide such similar assessment.

 One difference I observed was the variance on the continuum. According to my sister’s assessment of me and assessment on the Communication Anxiety Inventory (CAI) were both on the lower side of the scale with a difference of 1. My co-worker assessment of me on the CAI was towards the higher end of the continuum when I compare my co-worker assessment to mine on the CAI there was a notable difference of 6 (Rubin, Palmgreen & Sypher, 2009).

The two insights I have gained throughout this week about communication are:

1.      Self-Presentation requires communicators to find the appropriate level of self-monitoring for the situation and the people involved in order to communicate successfully. Being aware of this on a professional and personal basis will always help me to monitor the signals from the communicators so that interest is sustained in order for the desired objectives will be achieved.

2.      Self-Disclosure refers to the amount of information one share with others. It can be considered tool for confirming our self-concept or improving or self-esteem (O’Hair Wiemann, 2009 cited Miller, Cooke, Tsang & Morgan 1992). Both on a personal level and a professional level care must be exercised in terms of the quality and quantity of information that is shared because one can lose the respect of others should the lines become blurred and that can be very dangerous.

As a teacher and a communicator, I will work hard toward the areas of strengthening my weaknesses so that I will be a better communicator.

References:

O Hair, D, Friedrich, G. W., & Dixon, L. D. (2011). Strategic communication in business and the professions, Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

Ruibin, R. B., Palmgreen., P., & Sypher, H. E. (Eds.) (2009). Communication research measures: A sourcebook. New York: Routledge

Week 3

As I think about other cultures and groups, I do find myself communicating differently both verbally and non-verbally. When using verbal words I find myself speaking louder, in a clear tone pronouncing words carefully. When it comes to my non-verbal communication in regards to others of different groups and cultures I find myself smiling more, and alternating between eye contact and no eye contact. I will use what their non verbal language is saying and seemingly mimic their movements.

I was aware of the speaking clearly and louder, but not of my non-verbal interactions until I really focused on my interactions this week.

In my school we have a family who is from Spain and we will try to use clearer words, I also found myself avoiding any slang that Americans use as to convey the wrong message about their child's day.

I also find myself becoming very aware of my own difference. I notice any words I think I say differently then others I work with, and how I hold myself in the classroom; such as the placement of my arms when I am talking. I found that I seem to not know what to really do with my arms when I am interacting with other cultures. The unsure feeling makes me want to cross them across my chest, but I know this would seem negative and possibly send a message that I was uninterested in their family. I also utilize active listening, restating what they asked in or said to me back to them with my own words added.

O'Hair, & Wiemann. (2009) Real Communication: An Introduction. Bedford, St. Martin

Communicating Skills and Styles

I had a chance to look at Basketball Wives because my friend told me it would be something interesting to watch.

What do you think the characters’ relationships are based on the ways in which they are communicating?
After watching the show, I can tell there is something going on between the women right off the back. Shauna seems nice but always crying and at times acts like she is really bad with the rolling of her neck and her tone of voice. All the basketball wives in this reality show look mean but they all are very verbal.

What are they feeling and expressing based on the nonverbal behavior you are observing? Some of the wives seem to be expressing anger by throwing up their hands, pointing their fingers in each other faces, crying, and hurting each other feelings. Shauna, which is Shaq’s wife, always seems to be the one who has the big head and is so quick to catch an attitude. She’s always the first one to cry and the one who would use bad language.

What assumptions did you make about the characters and plot based on the ways in which you interpreted the communication you observed? Looking at this program the women are very loud, back stabbers, and even not so friendly towards one another. The women do not know how to communicate very well because there is too much mess and no one is really listening to one another and the only way they seem to get their point across is by cussing one another or even word bashing each other. The women in this show are very hostile.

Would your assumptions have been more correct if you had been watching a show you know well? No because some of the shows I watch they communicate by using their words not throwing punches, or even bashing one another, and if they say something that will hurt another person feelings, the characters try to come back and apologize and try to figure out a way in which they can communicate better.

With my experience in communication, a person has to be careful how they say things because people can take things the way they want to.

What is Communication

My mother comes to mind when I think of a person who demonstrates competent communication within a particular context. She displays strong communication skills. On many occasions when I would sit and listen to my mother as she talk, just the tone of her voice would capture my attention. It was never a time in which my mother was not certain of what she was talking about. When speaking with her children, she would provide information that was resourceful and reliable. Proving information that is accurate is always a positive so that we can believe in what one is saying. She was very proficient and always used a great choice of words. She would use direct eye contact which made me feel connected to her as she spoke to me. Even when others spoke while she talked, she would stop what she is saying to give the other person a chance to be heard. She nods her head when she is in agreement with what others or saying. She never lost her concentration and was always able to say what the other person said and offer advice if necessary. This made me realize that not only was she a good communicator but also a good listener.

I hope to be an effective communicator like my mother so that I will be able to capture the attention of a crowd. I used to be very shy when speaking in front of a group of people but not anymore. I want to be able to give each person direct eye contact as I speak so that we can connect with one another. Being able to connect with others as you speak can build trust which would build meaningful relationships that can have a lasting impact on the lives of children and families.

Professional Hopes and Goals

One hope that I have with regards to working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds is to provide all children with equal learning opportunities despite of their origin so that each child can excel in their learning. It is my desire to provide alternative approaches, skills for life, and decision making, which will enable children to ultimately become productive citizens of society.

One goal that I would like set for the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice is that we make all children and families feel valued and significant in every aspect of our classroom community. We must be optimistic and set aside our biases so that we can display equity and provide children with quality learning opportunities despite of their culture or ethnicity.

To all my colleagues, thank you all and I really enjoyed reading each discussion board and the blog each week. We all have come a mighty long way and I wish you all the best of luck as we continue this journey. I know we all will continue to excel in the program. With all the material and research I have learned throughout these few weeks wil help me better serve the children and their families that come from different culture. I can honestly say that with everything that I did learn these few weeks has helped me to grow as an individual. I hope to see or hear from everyone in the next class..
Best of luck to all!
Tracey

My Family Culture

I chose the Philippines as my family culture.

Name at least five ways in which you will prepare yourself to be culturally responsive towards this family?

1. . I will initiate conversation via email/ or snail mail with the family, assessing language preferences and the need for a translator or information in home language Then provide enrollment information including child/family questionnaire, which assesses information about culture, customs, child rearing practices, and goals for child in early childhood program.

2. . I will initiate conversation with other early childhood professionals in the Philippines, to gain an understanding of current trends and issues in the field.

3.  I will research cultural beliefs and child rearing practices in Philippines and I will also research and purchase materials and props that represent the families culture and incorporate family culture throughout center, including meals.

4.  I will research and purchase books and music that represent home language, as well as incorporate home language throughout center

5..  Schedule an orientation meeting prior to start in childcare to open lines of communication and form positive relationship. Also provide resources for families new in area to ensure smooth transition.

A brief statement describing in what ways you hope that these preparations will benefit both you and the family.

My goal is to create a strong bond and open lines of communication. I also plan to provide the feeling that the family and their culture are both welcome and respected in the facility.

Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice and Oppression

       

Saturday, February 11, 2012　
The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice and Oppression I have discussed my personal experience is when I was 10 when I first experienced racism. My uncle is black and his wife is white. So my cousin is of mixed raced. I was walking home with my cousin when we started talking about how the other children in her class had singled her out and made her feel bad about the color of her skin.She no longer wanted to be mixed, she wanted to be white. I said "You do know that you father is black don’t you?" She did not reply. I went home and cried because she made me feel bad about just the color of our skin, and how she let the other children get to her. My father wanted to go to the school to address this issue with the teacher and the children but I told him not to. My cousin later on told me that over one night she had realized that racism was wrong and that I was her best friend.

Another situation happened two weeks ago when one of my parents came to me to and said that she thinks her son other teacher is racist. This is a parent who is Caucasian and her boyfriend is Black and the two boys are bi-racial in which on of the boys are in my classroom. The teacher who she thinks is racist is an African American teacher and the parent thinks she is racist because the teacher will talk to the boyfriend but whenever she comes around she will not talk to her at all and that is her son. I agree with the parent! Why would she treat her any different from the boyfriend when she is the mother? She has every right to feel the way she does and I can feel her pain because she is such a sweet person. The parent came to me asking me what should she do. What should I do? After all this is my co-worker in which she is wrong and also this is my parent who is hurting because of the treatment she is getting from the teacher. I told the mother to follow her heart and to do what she think is best for her because wrong is wrong and right is right. I also suggested for her to make sure she follows the chain of command by going to the teacher first to find out what the problem is before going to her supervisor. I explained to the mother the importance of teaching our children about diversity and that we would in cooperate diversity into our curriculum throughout the year. In reference to how this diminished equity is that our schools are no longer segregated therefore, everyone should be treated equally and if your child is educated in public school you should leave all the microaggression at the door. When I’m put in situations like this it makes me very uncomfortable and I immediately become defensive inside in protection of my friend/my assistant but have to keep my professional composure.
posted by Tracey @ 9:26 PMHYPERLINK "http://tracey-hottes38.blogspot.com/2012/02/personal-side-of-bias-prejudice-and.html"

　

Microaggressions

When I young, I grew up open minded, and I was told that God loved everybody no matter what skin color we were.  At my last school I had friends of different races and got along with them fine. But then my family moved to another town and I had to change schools.  The first day of my new school, I saw that I was the only black person in the room which it never bothered me. I think it bother the ones who were already there. Once I sat down in the very back these three white girls were staring at me and some was really angry to see me become a part of their world. ''Just what we need is another black girl in our school, said one girl!” The girls did not even know me and they were calling me racist. She than kept asking me things like'' How many black kids were in your school. I was so shocked that I did not know what to say! All I said that I was not racist and that to me everybody was the same in God's eyes. I felt like Ruby Bridges; being the only black girl in the class.

One day one girl felt sorry for me and began talking to me and she even risked her life by becoming friends with me. I must say that these girls were evil and cruel. I thought the only way to make these girls back off of me was for me to stand up to them and let them know that we are all the same, regardless of our skin color. The story goes way beyond this but I just want to share this part with you because even though what the girls did to me and all the name calling, I have forgiven them all because  that is the Godly thing to do. 

Perspectives on Diversity and Culture

I have chosen three individuals a co-worker, a friend and a family member.

My co-worker and I have worked together for five years this month and we have a great working relationship.  Our cultures are different in that she is Caucasian and I being African American.

Culture:  “I think culture is difference in the way people live and believe”.

Diversity: “I think they are very similar and it’s the difference in beliefs and perhaps faith”.

 The friend I choose to ask these questions I feel is very similar to me in her beliefs and we share very similar culture characteristics. This friend is also a preschool teacher at Head Start.

Culture: “Culture can be anything from the difference in how individuals live and their beliefs”.

Diversity:  “Diversity is differences in individuals, race language, spiritual beliefs and life style”.

My Family member:

This family member I choose is a African American female who is married to an Caucasian man.  I choose this family member because I thought her definition would be very interesting since she has a very successful culturally diverse marriage.

Culture:  “Culture is what a person believes in and holds close to their heart”.  “It also includes their spiritual beliefs, mannerisms, food, dress and so much more”.

Diversity: “Diversity involves the difference in people which includes the same items I mentioned in culture’s definition”.

Which aspects of culture and diversity that I have studied in this course are included in the answers I received—and what are some examples?

All of the answers I received had creditability; an individual’s spiritual beliefs can be part of their culture or diversity. For example, individuals with the same skin color can still have difference in culture/diversity, meaning that some individual with the same skin color can have different spiritual beliefs.

Which aspects have been omitted—and what are some examples of such omission?

I don’t think any aspects were omitted in the definitions I received.

In what ways has thinking about other people’s definitions of culture and diversity influenced my own thinking about these topics?

Having my own definition given it made me think that there are so many aspects to an individual’s culture and it’s not all about the person’s skin tone or language that sets individuals apart in culturally diverse aspects.

My Family Culture

I’ve been through a major catastrophic storm in Gulfport, Ms in 2005, hurricane Katrina. Through this storm, the majority of everybody around town lost quite a bit of stuff and some had to relocate to other states. But if I had a choice of choosing three items to take with me, those three items will be my family, my two dogs and of cell phone with the Bible download on it. I could not stand to leave these three things behind.

I will explain to others that the reason I am taking my family is because they mean the world to me and I couldn’t stand the thought of leaving them behind. Then there is my cell phone with the Bible on it for me to read on a daily basis. But most of all in order to get through this ordeal me and my family must have faith in God and be able to read the bible for strength!  .

 This would be so terrible if I could only take one item with me! I just honestly can’t say what I would do in that situation until I had to live through it, but I suppose I would have to take my cell phone with the Bible because this would be a total nightmare as it already is, but the thought of me not having the Bible for strength, me and my faimily would have a hard time surviving.

 My insight was gained through thinking how difficult it must be for other nationalities to come over to the US and make a new home for their family and considering the US to be the land of well being and prosperity.