10/20/2020; Individualism vs. Collectivism

 

I think by now, I've convinced you that understanding your students' cultural background is extremely important. Another aspect we need to consider, though, is your students' cultural understanding of collectivism vs. individualism. 

In many western cultures, like the United States, Western Europe and Australia, individualism rules. The needs, wants and successes of the individual is more important than the needs, wants and successes of the group. In the classroom, this often translates to each student for themselves. My work getting done means my success and my grades aren't based on the work of anyone else. Group projects can be difficult because my grade is no longer my own, it is dependent on others' work. 

In many other cultures, including most Asian cultures, collectivism rules. The needs, wants and successes of the group overshadow the needs, wants and successes of individuals. In the classroom, the overall success of the student body is more important than the grades of the individuals. Many students are motivated to help those around them, and group projects are common. Individual actions are less important than the way the group is perceived. 

Neither viewpoint is better or worse than the other. It is simply something to notice. Do you have quite a few collective mindset students? Group projects might work very well with your students. Do you have students from individualistic societies that are struggling with group work? Maybe find a way for each student to prove they are doing their share of the work, rather than having the whole project graded once. The thing you're going to want to do is find out how the collective vs individual mindset affects your students and use that to your advantage. What are some other tools you've implemented to help with this mindset difference into your classroom?