Lesson 4: Introduction to Culture


Attention

Within the culture of this classroom there are many parts...the class is also part of a broader culture of KVCC, State of Maine, United States, etc. etc. etc.

We will examine this COURSE in light of the components of organizational culture outlined in the graphic above.


Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this lesson's material, students will be able to:

  • Identify components of material and non-material culture
  • Apply the Sociological Perspectives to a study of the Culture of the Classroom

Teaching

Cultue is to us like water is to a fish...it surrounds us, penatrates us, and we are often not aware of it being something special that sustains us!

Culture

The learned and shared behaviors, beliefs, attitudes, values, and material objects that characterize a particular group or society.

  • Material Culture - Objects and technology that characterize a group or society
  • Non-material Culture - Values, norms and expectations that characterize a group or society

Culture in the Classroom

This class has a culture...

  • What are some of the material culture aspects of this class?
  • What are some of the non-material culture aspects of this class?

Assessment

Lesson 4 Quiz

  1. List two material components of this class as a group with a distinct culture
  2. List two non-material components of this class as a group with a distinct culture.
  3. Consider another group that you belong to (outside of school)...list two material components of this culture
  4. Consider another group that you belong to (outside of school)...list two non-material components of this culture.

Possible Class Discussion

Each "group" that we belong to has a "culture". Your family, community, country, school, individual classrooms, and even peer groups. Reflect on your different groups and the different aspects of that group that would be termed as "culture".