Designing Culturally Responsive Teaching With Technology

Abstract

An extensive body of research has indicated that learning environments and materials need to take into account learner backgrounds and differences for best results. One helpful approach to incorporating learner backgrounds into instruction is “culturally responsive teaching.” Culturally responsive teaching makes learner needs and identity central to classroom material and activities. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) (CAST, 2018; Burgstahler, 2021) is another useful element. Designing with learners’ cultural, physical, and intellectual differences in mind before the class starts, not just adapting while teaching, is quite effective. Technology fits into both culturally-responsive teaching and UDL. Appropriate use of technology enables differentiated learning in a variety of ways. Technology tools, chosen thoughtfully, can also help teachers design inclusive, culturally responsive teaching with technology and better, more meaningful learning for students.