We expect all students to demonstrate proficiency in math . . . Why not in cultural competence? Dr. Steven Jones invites educators and parents to shift our conversations about diversity from ‘cultural sensitivity’ to cultural competencies — and explains how these skills are essential for all children’s developing abilities to think critically, to communicate, to collaborate, and to solve problems.

Further information and related resources (including slides from this presentation) are provided below the embedded video. 

 

 

Dr. Steven Jones is a leading voice in the areas of diversity, inclusion, and cross-cultural competency in learning communities. He has influenced countless public and private educational institutions, corporations, and city/government agencies as the CEO of Jones & Associates Consulting, Inc. Dr. Jones is also the first person of African descent to be ordained as a Buddhist Monk. If you are familiar with the NAIS Principles of Good Practice for Equity and Justice, you have Dr. Jones largely to thank. He has, at once, once of the most commanding and assuring voices, and one of the most infectious laughs. -CT

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SLIDES FROM THIS PRESENTATION:

 

 
  • http://www.facebook.com/rajsodhi73 Raj Sodhi

    Mr. Jones proposes we make cultural competency a required subject in our curriculum. I was convinced on the value of cultural competency for leadership and people skills. But I would like to have heard more ideas on how to implement such a program in today’s achievement driven schools. Perhaps it could be presented using Socratic methods. Given our enormous emphasis on educational standards, we would inevitably feel inclined to test for teacher and student competence in the matter, but how? I’m trying to visualize how Mr. Jones’ proposals could become a reality, and I don’t see it right now.

    • CurtisCFEE

      Thanks Raj . . . Very interesting question and dilemma IMO that Dr. Jones clearly couldn’t explore in the limited format of the talk, but surely worth further inquiry and very definitely on his radar and occupying his interest, attention, and expertise. You might be interested in attending one of his more extended presentations at his regional seminar series (http://ow.ly/gFafu) or in contacting him through their site (http://ow.ly/gFamX). That said, it’s my personal opinion that a learning community preoccupied with an antiquated, achievement- and performance-driven idea of ‘accountability’ is highly unlikely to embark on the journey of intentionally supporting the development of cross-cultural competencies. If nothing else, that might take away from precious test prep time! I’m not sure if that makes this a ‘moot point’ or a more complicated matter still. . .

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