Objective:
The purpose of this assignment is for students to gain insight into a culture, belief, or value system that is
different from their own. Through this experience, students will reflect on their emotional reactions, personal biases, and
new perspectives that may emerge. The assignment aims to foster greater cultural awareness and understanding,
important components in social work practice.
1. Participation/Observation:
Select an activity or event that is outside of your own cultural, religious, or social identity. This activity can include, but is not limited to, a religious service, holiday celebration, family gathering, or LGBTQIA+ event. The goal is to choose something that contrasts with your lived experience, belief, or value system.
During the event, take note of your emotional responses, any insights you gain, and the cultural differences you observe.
2. Reflection Paper (250 words): After attending the event or activity, write a reflection paper that addresses the following:
* Emotional Reactions: Describe how you felt during the experience. Did you feel welcomed, uncomfortable, or something else? How did the emotions you experienced help you understand the cultural differences?
* Gained Insights: Reflect on any new knowledge or understanding that you acquired about the culture, belief, or value system. Did the experience challenge any preconceived notions or deepen your appreciation for this culture?
* Biases: Identify any biases or stereotypes that may have surfaced based on your own lived experience or family background. How did these biases influence your understanding of the event or interaction? Consider whether this experience changed or reinforced any of your views.
* Family Interactions (if applicable): If the event involved a family setting, compare and contrast the family dynamics with those from your own culture. How do these differences (or similarities) influence your perception of family in a social context?
3. Formatting Guidelines:
* Length: 250 words.
* Format: Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-spaced.
4. Grading Criteria:
* Depth of Reflection: Demonstrates thoughtful and critical self-reflection, including emotional responses, insights gained, and bias awareness.
* Clarity and Structure: Paper is well-organized, coherent, and free of grammatical errors.
* Cultural Sensitivity: Displays sensitivity to and respect for the cultural differences experienced.