Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of multicultural education?

1. To create a uniform learning experience

2. To lessen prejudices and increase tolerance

3. To promote a single cultural identity

4. To focus solely on academic achievement

The correct answer is: To lessen prejudices and increase tolerance

The primary goal of multicultural education is to lessen prejudices and increase tolerance. This approach recognizes the diverse cultural backgrounds of students and seeks to create an inclusive learning environment that values and respects all cultures. Multicultural education aims to foster understanding and appreciation among students from different backgrounds, helping to break down stereotypes and build a more cohesive classroom community. By addressing issues of diversity and equity, it empowers students to coexist in a pluralistic society and equips them with the skills necessary to navigate and contribute positively to a multicultural world. In contrast, creating a uniform learning experience would ignore the unique perspectives and needs of diverse students, and promoting a single cultural identity would undermine the richness that different cultures bring to education. Focusing solely on academic achievement can also overlook the importance of social and emotional learning, which is facilitated by building a culturally responsive classroom.