Theorizing multiculturalism: Modeling the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion in school-based multicultural settings

Abstract

A theoretical review of multiculturalism is incredibly complex. I am aware, for instance, of the complexities and arguments associated with multiculturalism (called multiracialism in Singapore) in many Asian countries. Considering the multiple discourses involved in all of the countries in Asia and the vastness of the topic, I will focus on multiculturalism as it relates to teaching and learning in classrooms that, I am aware, are filled with students with varying cultural backgrounds. This chapter will include some views of individuals I have described in previous reports (Gunderson, 2000, 2007). My purpose is to develop a multicultural model that can be argued, contested, discussed, and possibly observed and tested in classrooms and schools in Asia.