Because of the Kids: Facing Racial and Cultural Differences in Schools

By Jennifer E. Obidah and Karen Manheim Teel

Book Overview

This fascinating account details the story of two teacher-researchers--Jennifer, who is African American, and Karen, who is White--as they set out on a collaborative three year study to explore the impact of racial and cultural differences in Karen's urban middle school classroom. Not anticipating that their own differences would become a threat to their project, the two women describe how they learn to confront and deal with the challenges they face so that they can work together. Their study presents the difficulties and importance of collaborations between teachers from different racial and cultural backgrounds, as well as keen insights into how race and culture evolve in teacher-student interactions. Of particular interest is an interview with the authors by Lisa Delpit and Dr. Delpit's analysis of their experience. Teachers and researchers will also find valuable practical advice about conducting cross-cultural collaboration and suggestions for persevering during difficult times.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0807740128
• ISBN13: 9780807740125
• Release Date: December 2000
• Publisher: Teachers College Press
• Length: 129 Pages
• Weight: 2.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.2" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

collaboration at its best

This book gives good insight into the world of teaching and how the differences we perceive as teachers are some of the same differences our students face in the learning process. It opens your eyes to understanding your role as a teacher and how the stereotypes we bring with us may affect our effectiveness as teachers. I recommend this book to everyone trying to understand how to effectively teach a diversity of students to reach their full potential.

The Title Offers the Answer

I think that racism is an almost impossible subject to tackle; but if there is a good reason to go through it - it is our future, the kids. These two authors struggle with the issues and come to some important understanding. If you really want to understand it and if you need a powerful reason to struggle with it. This book will help you do it.