"It Felt Like Family": Utilizing Cultural Integrity and Culturally Relevant Pedagogy in Precollege Preparation Programs

• In Event: 68.061 - Roundtable Session 30
  In Roundtable Session: 68.061-7 - Curriculum as Inclusive Practice

Abstract

Integrating cultural integrity and culturally relevant pedagogy into pre-college preparation programs provides opportunities for students to explore their identities in relation to college choice, college fit, and careers. While most pre-college programs are effective at bringing diverse students to campuses, they do not necessarily emphasize or engage issues of culture or identity. Utilizing a qualitative approach, this session will explore the following overarching question: What happens when a pre-college program for historically underrepresented youth makes cultural identity a cornerstone of their program and requires its students to participate in a culture identity course? A course specifically designed to create a "safe' place for students to grapple with complexities of their life and educational experiences from the vantage point of identity.

Authors

• Christina Wright Fields, Marist College

• Stephanie M. Power Carter, Indiana University

• Gloria Howell, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Bita Hazel Zakeri, Indiana University - Bloomington