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Cultural
Literacy:
WHAT IS IT?
Dental schools are increasingly using an
applicant's perceived cultural literacy as one of the major criteria (as
well they should) for acceptance into their programs. Cultural
literacy does not imply an elite attitude, but rather a firm grasp of
what one should know to be a functional member of an educated
society. Cultural literacy includes, among many things, an
understanding of one's language, grammar, pronunciations, and syntax in
speech, listening and writing. Nuances of language and
appropriately used idioms are also important skills to develop and
understand. The phrase "well-rounded" is  probably as
good a description as any when referring to cultural literacy. A
student should have substantial background in the arts, literature,
history, political science, and be up to date with current events on a
variety of subjects. The social sciences of psychology, sociology,
anthropology, and human development must also be emphasized as they are
an important background component in dealing with people - your future
patients.
HOW DOES A STUDENT
GAIN CULTURAL LITERACY?
You have already, and must continue, to
learn in formal settings, from others, and from your daily life
experiences. You must develop your listening, observing, and
problem-solving skills. There are useful courses that can
accompany your learning experiences - deductive logic, public speaking,
psychology, etc. Books describing cultural literacy and suggesting
the kinds of information one should possess to prepare for entrance into
a professional field (or modern life), can sometimes be found in your 
school's library or pre-health adviser's office. One should not
expect to gain "quick fix" knowledge or "Trivial
Pursuit" abilities. These books may help you to locate areas
where you need to fill in the substantial blanks in your formal
education. The science major should have a substantial liberal
arts background - the liberal arts major must demonstrate science
knowledge beyond the basic DAT preparation.
SIGNIFICANCE OF
CULTURAL LITERACY
When a student is interviewed at a
dental school, the interviewer(s) will not ask questions concerning
one's academic knowledge and performance. Remember, the
interviewer already has a copy of DAT scores, transcript of courses
taken and your cumulative GPA. You will, however, be expected to
hold an intelligent conversation and give answers concerning life
experiences, current events, and answer hypothetical questions.
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Last modified: August 09, 1999
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