Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students

Abstract

There is no single phrase to describe students who are culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD). Indeed, there are many different definitions that describe culture; most definitions include such features as the knowledge, rules, traditions, beliefs and values that guide a particular group. The group can defined along religious, ethnic, racial, gender, social class or other criteria. Every individual is a member of many different groups and so is influenced by many different cultures. This chapter will explore the impact of culture on students described as CALD in relation to their schooling in Australia. Included in this group will be students who have English as a second (or third or fourth) language and Indigenous Australian students.