3.12: Suggested Videos

Davis, T. (2021, June 10). Include me: Social inclusion in education [Video]. TEDx Talks. YouTube. https://youtu.be/YVRchyurs1g

In this brief but powerful talk, Travis Davis discusses the importance of social inclusion in schools, emphasizing that true inclusion goes beyond physical integration. Davis challenges educators and communities to create environments where every student feels valued, respected, and capable of contributing meaningfully. He offers practical insights into how inclusive education promotes empathy, collaboration, and equity, making the talk useful for teachers and administrators seeking to enhance inclusive practices.

Gavin, M. (2017, February 8). Why cultural diversity matters [Video]. TEDx Talks. YouTube. https://youtu.be/48RoRi0ddRU

Michael Gavin explores the critical role cultural diversity plays in building creative, innovative, and empathetic societies. Through engaging examples, he demonstrates how exposure to diverse perspectives enhances learning and problem-solving. Gavin argues that embracing diversity in educational settings prepares students for global citizenship and improves collective understanding. This talk is particularly relevant for educators seeking to strengthen culturally responsive teaching and promote equity across classrooms.

Franco, J. (2014). The Sound and the Fury. New Films International.

Sound and Fury is a documentary film released in 2000 about two American families with young deaf children and their conflict over whether or not to give their children cochlear implants (surgically implanted devices that may improve their ability to hear but may threaten their Deaf identity).

Levinson, B. (Director). (1988). Rain Man [Film]. United Artists.

Rain Man follows Charlie Babbitt, a self-centered car dealer who discovers that his estranged brother, Raymond—an autistic savant—has inherited the bulk of their father’s fortune. Initially motivated by financial gain, Charlie takes Raymond on a cross-country trip, during which he begins to understand Raymond’s unique abilities, routines, and vulnerabilities. As the journey unfolds, Charlie transforms from frustrated caretaker to a compassionate and protective brother, forming an emotional bond he never expected. The film highlights themes of family, acceptance, dignity, and the complexity of neurodiversity.

Overton, C. (Director). (2017). The silent child [Film]. Multi-Story Films; Slick Sound. (https://youtu.be/2GbxFIVQv8c )

This Oscar-winning short follows a young deaf child's journey as a social worker helps unlock communication. Captions are essential to understand the vital sign language used. The film explores the challenges and triumphs of a family learning to connect.

Smith, N. (Director). (2015). McFarland, USA [Film]. Walt Disney Pictures.

McFarland, USA tells the true story of Jim White, a high school coach who relocates to the predominantly Latino, economically challenged farming community of McFarland, California. After noticing the extraordinary endurance and work ethic of several students who labor in the fields before school, White forms the school’s first cross-country team. Through disciplined training, cultural understanding, and growing mutual respect, the boys rise from unlikely athletes to state contenders. The film highlights themes of resilience, community, opportunity, and the transformative power of believing in young people who are often overlooked.

Zwick, K. L. (Director). (2016). My big fat Greek wedding 2 [Film]. Gold Circle Films; HBO Films; Playtone.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 follows Toula Portokalos as she faces new family challenges, including reconnecting with her husband Ian while supporting their teenage daughter, Paris, who is preparing for college and seeking independence from her close-knit Greek family. The story becomes even more chaotic when Toula’s parents, Gus and Maria, discover that their original marriage certificate was never signed, prompting the entire extended family to organize another large, lively, and emotional Greek wedding. Through humorous and heartfelt moments, the film explores themes of family bonds, identity, tradition, and the sometimes messy but deeply loving nature of multigenerational families.

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