Funds of Knowledge
The term 'funds of knowledge' (FoK) refers to "historically accumulated and culturally developed bodies of knowledge and skills essential for household or individual functioning and well-being," such as agriculture, mining, construction, car mechanics, midwifery, folk cures, budgeting, renting and selling, and so on (Moll et al., 1992). These FoK area rich source of resources and knowledge that can be used to foster community connection and student learning.
Survey
In order to invite in participation from the students' home communities, first you need to know what skill sets and knowledge is out there. This can be done by surveying the students in class, or by sending them home with a survey to fill out together with their families.
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Click below for a sample funds of knowledge survey.
Parent Workshops
In the Moll et al. ethnographic study, the researchers and teachers invite a parent, who is an expert candy maker, into the classroom, and design a week-long unit based around this topic. The unit drew on nutrition, business, economics, and more, and culminated in a hands-on cooking workshop with the parent.
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Click below for a sample lesson plan based on the Moll et al. study.
