Four Misconceptions about Multicultural Education that Impede Understanding

Abstract

The core of multicultural education is formed by critical analyses of many issues. Among these are matters related to race, socio-economic class, and sex. These and other factors act singly, and in tandem, to impact the lives and choices of individuals and groups in schools and society-at-large. Because of its multifaceted nature, misconceptions about multicultural education exist that seriously impede understanding and appreciation of its true purposes. In this article the author discusses four of these misconceptions. Each is examined for the manner in which it distorts the goals of multicultural education. Challenges for teacher educators are examined.