Context
This artifact was created in the Spring 2005 semester for my Foundations of Multicultural Education class. I collaborated with three other classmates to create a research project on Hispanic students, specifically from Central American countries. This research paper was composed so that we could better understand the cultural background and influences of Central American students and so that we might be able to better instruct students from these backgrounds should we have them in our classrooms one day.

Impact
In researching and composing this paper, I found many different ideas that enlightened me as a teacher and that make me more aware of issues concerning students from Hispanic backgrounds. Also, by researching this topic and this culture, I had to find appropriate instructional techniques to address the needs of students who may be from this group. Because I contributed to the research and writing of this paper, I am now more informed as to how to instruct Spanish speaking students. I am also more aware of how students from this background tend to view education and their expectations of teachers. Having this knowledge makes me more able to impact the learning of students from diverse backgrounds.

Alignment
Standard 14
Indicator 1: Because we researched the background of Central American and Hispanic cultures, as well as their views on schooling and how to best instruct them without forcing assimilation, I am demonstrating an understanding and respect for families from diverse backgrounds and their views about education.
Indicator 2: In gathering the research for this paper, we were asked to identify and research some of the common stereotypes and biases towards the specific group we researched. In researching this information and presenting it in a presentation to our class, we demonstrated promoting discussion about controversial issues. We also demonstrated our ability to use debates, gather data, and recognize bias while doing the research and presentation of this paper.
Indicator 4: By completing the research and forming our own synthesis and analysis of the research, we showed our ability to examine multiple viewpoints on an issue and how to respec the viewpoints of families of students who come from diverse backgrounds. We also recognized the need for involving the families of diverse students in the education process so as to prove our value of family involvement and respect for their culture.