Principles and practices of caring communities in educational practices within diverse contexts

Abstract

Educational opportunities have the potential to increase equity on local as well as global scales. Identifying principles and practices associated with caring communities and equity opportunities (particularly for vulnerable populations) to participate in these communities is not targeted in reform efforts – even though it may significantly enhance student achievement, critical thinking, democratic citizenship, relationships and general satisfaction in a learning community. The identification of principles and practices of caring communities holds schools responsible not just for outcomes, but for the opportunities and choices they offer (Noddings, 2005) [1]. This paper will examine the importance of principles and practices of caring communities in two distinct educational settings, and explore how to infuse them into these settings, creating an exponential effect.