Learning grows when everyday experiences become shared knowledge
WHAT CONCEPTS SHOULD YOU KNOW AS EDUCATOR?
Learning in educational environments is shaped by interaction, context, and lived experience, not only by formal instruction. Sociocultural learning research (Lev Vygotsky) shows that people learn effectively through shared, meaningful activities. Cultural expressions such as food, games, songs, and stories therefore act as common reference points that support participation, communication, and cooperation (e.g. explaining when a dish is eaten, teaching a childhood game, or sharing a song linked to a celebration).
Intercultural learning is most effective when it focuses on practices and meanings, rather than abstract descriptions of cultures. Intercultural competence models (Michael Byram) emphasise engaging with everyday practices to build curiosity and perspective-taking without reducing people to cultural categories (for example, discussing what music is used for (comfort, celebration, motivation) rather than where it comes from).
Educational research highlights that learners bring valuable knowledge from their homes and communities that is often invisible in formal education (Luis Moll). Recognising these resources lowers barriers to participation, especially for learners who struggle with language-heavy or abstract tasks (e.g. demonstrating a game or explaining a family tradition instead of giving a formal presentation).
In educational settings, the value of cultural expression lies not in displaying difference, but in exploring function and meaning—how practices bring people together (family meals), what skills they develop (cooperation, storytelling), and what needs they meet (belonging, care).
HOW CAN YOU EXPLAIN IT TO THE STUDENTS?
Each of us comes from different families, backgrounds, and traditions. When we share those perspectives, we do not just learn facts – we learn how the world looks from many different angles.
You don’t need to be an expert or speak for a whole culture to take part. What matters is sharing something from your experience and listening to others to see how people meet similar needs in different ways.
| ACTION ITEM | Value Skills Learned Outside Formal Training: Acknowledge knowledge gained through family, community, or informal work experience as legitimate learning resources, especially for students who may struggle with theory-heavy tasks. |
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