According to the article Understanding Collectivist
Cultures: “Collectivist cultures are usually contrasted with individualistic
cultures. Collectivism stresses the importance of the community, while
individualism is focused on the rights and concerns of each person. Where unity
and selflessness are valued traits in collectivist cultures, independence and
personal identity are promoted in individualistic cultures.”
From my perspective, I consider that in today's world
that we are living individualism can be perceived more in people, because the
sooner we become independent and achieve things by our own means and talents,
the better. However, if we have this perspective we can have a negative impact
in the classroom with our students since there may be a lack of communication
between them or teamwork. Collectivism in contrast to individualism makes us
more empathic with the other person that we think about the well-being and need
of the other instead of thinking about ourselves.
As teachers, we must be attentive to avoid
misunderstandings between students. We must learn from the culture and social norms
of our students so that it can be an optimal learning environment, warm for
them, and feel that they are included among their peers. As a society, it is important to be aware of the other and be responsible for each of our actions.
Source:
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-are-collectivistic-cultures-2794962
It is important when the students understand that, in a TESOL class, when they spend their time helping their colleagues and sharing the knowledge they are helping themselves. I think this is the main idea behind the collectivist culture.
ReplyDeleteHello Helen!! I totally agree with you. When we give to the other, the ones we receive the most are us.
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