W06 Blog: Personal Space Differences

Various cultures have different standards for personal space. Some cultures like to be close knit and show support through touch, such as a hand on a shoulder, or even simply sitting near each other. However, other cultures may find it offensive or presumptuous for someone to be standing within a few feet of them or their property. In some cultures it may be acceptable to be close knit on some occasions but distance to be kept on other occasions, and vice versa.

Understanding students' personal space preferences, viewing the class as a whole and individual students' preferences, is important to a teacher. Some students will value a teacher looking over their shoulder to see how their writing exercises are going, especially if positive feedback is given, while other students will become uncomfortable.

Another thing to note: some students with be forthright about their spatial preferences and let you know if you have breached their personal space, but some students will not. One reason that a student may not indicate their personal space preferences or when their personal space has been invaded is that they may have been taught to not talk back to or disobey their elders, as a sign of respect. While other students may not show respect and will need to be taught the teacher's expectations for respect in the classroom.