Evaluating Impacts on Professional Practice

Evaluating Impacts on Professional Practice

I have experienced different biases and discrimination in my life as I am of mixed heritage and grew up in poverty in Southeastern Kentucky.  There are many negative stereotypes associated with being from the mountains and one bias concerns our distinctive dialect which many see as lacking in intelligence and uneducated.  I once was told if I wanted to be seen as a professional I would be required to lose the hillbilly accent.  The media plays a strong role in the damaging image of people from the Appalachian Mountains with statements like it is a culture of poverty and ignorance made by Bill O’Reilly.                                                                                                

In regard to what I have learned about classism and racism and its influence on people’s well-being especially concerning children of minorities or growing up in poverty I realize they receive less in regard to educational opportunities with less well-trained teachers, less effective curriculum, less instructional time, less in available resources such as “well-stocked laboratories and libraries, and less of what undoubtedly is most important of all—a belief that they can really learn” (Gordon & Browne, 2011, p. 535).  Yet, as early childhood educators we must address the “lesses” and strive for equal learning opportunities regardless of economic status, racial or ethnic backgrounds, and cultural differences.  These incidents of prejudice and discrimination have a destructive influence especially as “children learn about their own and others’ social identities through both overt and convert messages” (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2010, p. 13).  They add to the loss of cultural pride while perpetrating shame of the mountain culture.                                                                     

Considering how these adverse or negative interactions affect my emotional, cognitive and physical well-being I believe it has made me a more determined person maybe even obstinate and headstrong.  I have used it as a motivator to overcome challenges and preconceived ideas others have of me and my capabilities.  It has also impacted my work with children in that I have a strong desire to see children have “more” regarding their educational opportunities by providing equitable and effective learning experiences.  I want children to be confident in their own abilities and have a positive sense of self and as early childhood teachers/caregivers it is our job to help children by providing them a responsive and caring environment where they can reach their full potential

References

Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children

Gordon, A. M., & Browne, K. W. (2011). Beginnings and beyond: Foundations in early childhood education (8^th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth-Cengage Learning