What does culturally relevant pedagogy emphasize?

Culturally relevant pedagogy emphasizes the connection of course content to students' cultural references, which promotes engagement and enhances learning. This approach recognizes the diverse backgrounds of students and integrates their experiences, values, and perspectives into the educational process. By doing so, culturally relevant pedagogy not only validates students’ identities but also makes learning more meaningful and accessible.

When educators link curriculum to the cultural contexts of their students, they help foster a sense of belonging and intrinsic motivation. This method encourages students to see themselves as part of the learning process, which can improve their academic performance and increase their interest in the subject matter.

In contrast, other approaches that emphasize rigid adherence to standardized curricula, limit discussions to stereotypes, or ignore cultural backgrounds fail to take into account the unique perspectives that each student brings to the classroom. These methods can alienate students and diminish the relevance of the education they receive, ultimately hindering their engagement and success.