Goally Penguin Logo with Sunglasses

Goally

Get

Goally

What Does Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Mean?

Home>>Neurodiversopedia>>C Terms

Summary

summary

Culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students are kids from different cultural backgrounds who speak languages other than English at home. When these students also have special needs, it’s important for parents and educators to consider how their unique cultural and linguistic experiences may impact their learning and support needs.

Frequently Asked Question

donut

Why is it important to consider CLD in education and speech-language pathology?

Taking a CLD approach helps to ensure that services are culturally responsive and linguistically appropriate, promoting inclusivity and equity for all individuals.

How can teachers support CLD students in the classroom?

Teachers can use materials and teaching methods that are culturally relevant and respectful of different languages and customs, while creating a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment.

What are some challenges that CLD individuals might face in healthcare?

CLD individuals may face language barriers, cultural differences in healthcare practices and beliefs, and limited access to healthcare services due to socio-economic factors.

Scientific Definition

scientist

Culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students are individuals from homes where English is not the primary language spoken and whose cultural backgrounds differ from the dominant culture in their educational setting. CLD students with disabilities face unique challenges, as their learning needs are influenced by the intersection of their cultural, linguistic, and disability-related factors. Educators and parents must collaborate to provide culturally responsive and inclusive support for these students.

 

Resources:

Video Explanation

video-explanation

Real World Example of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

Maria, a 9-year-old girl from a Spanish-speaking family, has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Her story demonstrates the importance of considering cultural and linguistic diversity when supporting students with special needs:

  • Cultural values: Maria’s family places a strong emphasis on family involvement and interdependence, which influences their expectations for her education and support.
  • Language barriers: As English is not the primary language spoken at home, Maria’s parents face challenges in communicating with her teachers and understanding the special education process.
  • Culturally responsive strategies: Maria’s teachers work to incorporate her family’s cultural values and linguistic background into her educational plan, such as using visual aids and providing materials in both English and Spanish.
  • Collaborative approach: By engaging in open communication and mutual respect, Maria’s parents and educators develop a strong partnership to support her learning and growth.

Maria’s case highlights the critical role of cultural competence in education. It is essential that schools and educators adapt their methods to meet the diverse needs of their students, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to succeed in an environment that respects and embraces their heritage.

How Does Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Work?

Culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) considerations are used to inform educational practices and support for students with special needs from diverse backgrounds. Here are some examples:

Aspect Description
Assessments Educators use culturally and linguistically appropriate assessments to identify a student’s strengths and needs accurately.
Instructional strategies Teachers employ culturally responsive teaching methods that build upon students’ prior knowledge and experiences.
Family engagement Schools actively involve CLD families in the education process, providing language support and respecting cultural values.
Professional development Educators receive training on cultural competence and strategies for supporting CLD students with disabilities.

By addressing the unique needs of CLD students with disabilities, educators and parents can create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that promotes their success.

 

This post was originally published on April 9, 2023. It was updated on May 10, 2024.