What is the role of cultural literacy in education according to the MTEL?

Cultural literacy plays a vital role in education by connecting learning to various cultural contexts. This concept emphasizes the importance of understanding and incorporating diverse cultural perspectives and contributions into the curriculum. By fostering cultural literacy, educators enable students to appreciate the richness of different cultures, which can enhance their engagement with the material and promote a more inclusive learning environment.

This approach encourages students to learn about and respect cultures other than their own, facilitating deeper critical thinking and empathy. It recognizes that education is not just about mastering content, but also about understanding the broader societal and cultural frameworks in which that content exists. Therefore, integrating cultural literacy into education not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares students to navigate and participate in an increasingly interconnected world.