ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a way for the people to explore and consider our beliefs and assumptions about what it means to live and work in a rural setting and teach K–12 students. Some experts call these preliminary ideas cognitive heuristics—mental shortcuts the peoples use to help us process information quickly. One approach to developing a more complete understanding of rural people and places is through the use of tool called Asset Mapping. This tool “maintains that strengths and resources exist in all communities and that those elements can be identified, encouraged, and leveraged to advance the various aspirations of the community”. Cultural humility can help the peoples to present our own ideas in a non-offensive manner and listen to alternative ideas from position of respect and empathy. In this way, cultural humility can make a significant difference in building mutually respectful relationships with our students, our colleagues, and community members in rural schools and communities, or wherever people may be.
