Group Differences: Rural Populations

For this project I read Appalachian Culture and Schooling by Eva Thaller.  While she did not grow up in Appalachia, her family did, and she currently resides on her family's farm.  I believe she is writing for those who are outside of Appalachia as well as those who are from the culture or living in the area.  Her main goal is to address misconceptions, give some background into the culture, and explain reasons behind why education in this area is failing and ways it can be improved.  She bases much of her assumptions on the studies and research of others and her own experiences.

I really related to Thaller because my family comes from the Appalachian region and many were farmers.  I personally lived in a suburban area, though, until 4th grade when I moved to a small farm in a rural community in East Tennessee.  I encountered many of the stereotypes Thaller mentions just by being associated with the community even though it was not where I was originally from.  She states that, "Rural, poor, and Appalachian students are perceived by others to be culturally and intellectually inferior and are socially isolated in the school system" (p. 248-249).  I definitely agree with her on this based on my personal experiences, because I recall being called "redneck" or "stupid" by students at other schools within our county.  Not only that, but we did not receive as much funding or resources as other schools.  Where did/do these misconceptions come from, though?  Thaller mentions that media can play a role, but even after getting to know people and disproving some misconceptions, the general stereotypes often remain.

Building off of this idea, I could not help but question Thaller's generalizations about all people from Appalachia.  I believe generalizations are often behind the strong misconceptions people have.  While I technically grew up in part of the region called Appalachia, I did not encounter several of the characteristics she stated many people from this area have such as disregard of education.  For example, my rural community actually had a very high graduation rate.  While I understand that my experiences may be different from others, I believe it is important to keep in mind that Appalachia is a large area.  Cultures, traditions, and characteristics will differ in all parts of the region, so some traits may be able to be generalized but others could lead to misconceptions.

Lastly, I found it surprising that Thaller compared Appalachian people to other minority and ethnic groups such as African-Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans.  Since these groups of people come from the same ethnic background as most other Americans, they tend to get overlooked as a minority.  It never occurred to me to view this group of people as a separate ethnicity, but I agree with Thaller that perhaps the best way to approach educating Appalachian people is through a cross-cultural approach which is much like what is encouraged for other minority groups.  Addressing linguistic differences and preparing students to live not only in their culture but others, as well, is important.  Students will not only learn to take pride in their heritage but also will make more relevant connections between their daily life and school material which may increase motivation.