Unit 7: Professional Boundaries and Teacher–Student Relationships

5. Cultural Considerations

What is considered appropriate in one culture may be perceived differently in another. Cultural values influence perceptions of:
·       Physical proximity
·       Forms of address (titles, first names)
·       Informal interactions (e.g., coffee invitations)
Educators must be:
·       Sensitive to diverse cultural expectations.
·       Clear about behavioral norms in their classrooms.
·       Respectful of students’ comfort levels and boundaries.