Funds of Knowledge Within Six Roma Households

• In Event: Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: Funds of Knowledge in Families’ Contributions to Education

Abstract

This study seeks contextual understanding of funds of knowledge using oral history in a Roma community in an Eastern European area. Due to political and social discrimination, Romani people are marginalized in many societies. In addition, lack of education is often connected to the image of the Roma. In this study, by oral history (Olmedo, 1997), six Roma households were interviewed in order to understand their family history and funds of knowledge. The findings include their work and labor history, family structure and resilience and solidarity. This study provides a way for both students and teachers to conduct inquiry projects to seek understanding of the community culture and funds of knowledge, which can thus shape their learning and teaching.

Author

• Hsiao-Chin Kuo, Western Michigan University