Eastern Philosophy Unit
(Mandala + Reflection Work)
Students explored concepts from Buddhism and Hinduism through mandala creation, written reflection, and comparative analysis.
What it shows:
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Connection between literature and philosophy
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Opportunities for personal reflection
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Multiple modes of expression (visual + written)
Reflection:
This artifact comes closest to what Zaretta Hammond (Pedagogies of the Oppressed, Cultural Synthesis) and Ladson-Billings (Culturally Relevant Pedagogy: Asking a Different Question, Ch. 9) describe as culturally responsive teaching. Students were invited to connect ideas to their own lives and identities. However, I also recognize that the structure still guided students toward specific outcomes. While reflection was personal, the pathway was predetermined. This has pushed me to think more critically about how to create space for authentic, student-driven meaning-making.