Many countries have different orientations with regards to collectivism and individualism. It is natural for human beings to form groups and collaborate. Even during the times where there were only small villages and small tribes, humans have collaborated with each other. We can even see that in sports where many are collaborative, teams with one goal to achieve and each playing their part.
The west is know for having a more individualistic society. Especially in the United states where individual rights are embedded in the nation's founding document, the constitution. A merit based society tends to be more individualist. In Asian countries, collectivism is the norm. Parents still have great power over their children. In China, for example, it is common to find multi generation homes, with parents, grandparents and children in the same home. And in the work place, the collectivist mentality is quite visible, some even call their bosses their master or leader.
In the classroom, it is important to respect the background of students and be aware of their customs when it comes to individualism or collectivism.
The west is know for having a more individualistic society. Especially in the United states where individual rights are embedded in the nation's founding document, the constitution. A merit based society tends to be more individualist. In Asian countries, collectivism is the norm. Parents still have great power over their children. In China, for example, it is common to find multi generation homes, with parents, grandparents and children in the same home. And in the work place, the collectivist mentality is quite visible, some even call their bosses their master or leader.
In the classroom, it is important to respect the background of students and be aware of their customs when it comes to individualism or collectivism.
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