ED X360.1 - Empowering Students through Culturally Responsive Support and Instruction
Course Description
This course explores culturally responsive instructional practices grounded in emotional support. Participants will learn about theTeacher Training Trifecta, an approach that develops pillars of, inspiration, connection, and application to transform student mindsets and classroom behavior. Learners will examine asset-based approaches to teaching, build meaningful connections with diverse learners, and apply practical strategies to create equitable, high-support learning environments. The course draws on research and tools from Dr. Victor Rios and Dr. Rebeca Mireles Rios, who have over 20 years of research and practice experience in this field. The course will connect culturally responsive theory with everyday classroom interventions.
Course Outline
- Week 1: Introduction to Culturally Responsive Teaching
- Week 2: The Teacher Training Trifecta Framework
- Week 3: Asset-Based Practices
- Week 4: Ecosystems of Care
- Week 5: Curriculum Design and Cultural Responsiveness
- Week 6: Bias, Mindset, and Reflection
- Week 7: Student Engagement and Voice
- Week 8: Facilitating professional development with other educators
Learner Outcomes
Participants completing this course will be able to:
- Identify and articulate key components of culturally responsive teaching and how these support student engagement and achievement.
- Critically examine personal and institutional mindsets that influence student and community empowerment in classroom practice.
- Apply the Teacher Training Trifecta framework to plan and deliver culturally responsive instruction and training for other educators.
- Design classroom activities and assessments that honor students’ cultural strengths and lived experiences.
- Develop a professional action plan for continuing culturally responsive practice and peer training with other educators in their school contexts.