Seeking Diversity on Campus
Acknowledging the importance of diversity to education, colleges and universities have begun to take the concepts of diversity and apply them to student learning opportunities. We see these steps in efforts by colleges to embrace an inclusive curriculum. Today you can find courses with a diversity focus, and many of them meet graduation requirements. The college setting is ideal for promoting education about diversity because it allows students and faculty of varying backgrounds to come together for the common purpose of learning and critical thinking.
inclusive curriculum A curriculum that offers courses that introduce students to diverse people, worldviews, and approaches.
According to Gloria Ameny-Dixon, education about diversity can do the following:
- Increase problem-solving skills through different perspectives applied to reaching solutions
- Increase positive relationships through the achievement of common goals, respect, appreciation, and commitment to equality
- Decrease stereotyping and prejudice through contact and interaction with diverse individuals
- Promote the development of a more in-depth view of the world1
Be it religious affiliation, sexual orientation, gender, ethnicity, age, culture, economic status, or ability, your campus provides the opportunity to interact with and learn alongside a kaleidoscope of individuals.