Multicultural education Essay Example for Free

Multicultural upbringing EssayFrom its early beginnings in the 1960s, multicultural direction has since been in a constant state of growth both in theory and in practice (Gorski Covert 1996). In the last four decades, it has undergone perennial transformation, focusing and conceptualization as challenges emerge one after the other from a rapidly ever-changing population demographics and a significant growth in diverse multicultural groups. The result is a the great unwashed of conceptualizations reflecting different foci but which basically share the same ideals rooted upon the need for transformation or change. Gorski (2000) defines multicultural education as a progressive approach for transforming education that holistically critiques and addresses current shortcomings, failings, and discriminatory practices in education. These shared ideals that include social justice, equity in educational opportunities, and the dedication to help students reach their entire potential as learners and as socially conscious and active individuals provide the basis for understanding multicultural education.It is a process of action, through which adults achieve clarity about their condition in this society and ship canal to change it (Phillips, 1988). Multicultural education acknowledges that schools, among all other institutions, play a pivotal role in building the foundation and acting as major influencing factor for the transformation of society and the elimination of burdensomeness and injustice. The realities of the times clearly speak for the growing importance and relevance of multicultural education.Cultural diversity in schools is indeed one considerable challenge but like any other, it can be a most welcome opport accord. History has shown us that nations are enriched by the ethnic, cultural, and language diversity among its citizens (Banks, 2001). Schools play a significant part in finding ways to harness and redirect cultural diversity into creating uni ty and progress in schools and ultimately to society in general. References Banks, J. A. (April 2001).Diversity within unity Essential principles for learn and learning in a multicultural society. New Horizons for Learning. Retrieved on May 28, 2009 from http//www. newhorizons. org/strategies/multicultural/banks. htm Gorski, P. Covert, B. (1996 2000). Defining multicultural education. Retrieved on May 28, 2009 from http//www. edchange. org/multicultural/define_old. html Phillips, C. B. (1988). Nurturing diversity for todays children and tomorrows leaders. Young Children 43(2).