Diversifying Diversity: Meeting the Needs of a Multicultural Campus

Diversifying Diversity: Meeting the Needs of a Multicultural Campus

• 1.
  Matthew P. Ciszek PennState Shenango March 16, 2013
• 2.
   Diversity andmulticulturalism have become goals in higher education in past 40 years  Many reasons, including: ◦ Change in demographics ◦ Recognition that diverse points of view enrich the educational experience ◦ Using education to further social justice and socioeconomic equality  Central role in mission statements, strategic plans, and educational priorities
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   Most IHEssupport and represent “historically underrepresented” groups  These groups include: ◦ Racial minorities ◦ Ethnic minorities ◦ Women  Many IHEs are only beginning to consider the how to support and represent other underrepresented groups
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   Diversity andmulticultural climate is the responsibility of whole institution  “One’s cultural identity is more than ethnicity or race”  “Gender, age, religion, geographic identity, and sexual orientation are equally part of the makeup of a multicultural individual”
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   Biracial and MultiracialStudents  Lesbian, Gay, Bisex ual, and Transgender Students  International Students  Non-traditional Age Students  Students with Disabilities  Students with Diverse Religious Beliefs or Spirituality
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   Typically 25years or older  More than 70% of new students in recent years  Come to higher education with different expectations  Preparation for college level work is often less than traditional age students  Students juggling work, family, and other priorities
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   Be availableoutside the classroom and during weekend/evening hours  Build additional help and assistance with technology and research into curriculum  Be flexible on attendance and other policies due to family commitments  Incorporate expertise of older students into examples and curriculum  Highlight areas of coursework that speak to work/family life, job seeking, and like topics
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   Individuals witha sexual orientation or gender expression/identity different from the majority  Number of self-identified LGBT students has grown in last 20 years  Due to social stigmatization, many students struggle emotionally/academically in high school
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   Creation of“safe spaces” in the classroom where LGBT students can have open discussion  Inclusion of LGBT themes in curriculum or classroom instruction  Training faculty on sensitivity and awareness of LGBT issues  Partnering with campus LGBT groups and resource centers  Developing a minor in LGBT/Queer Studies
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   Due tothe ADA (1990), increasing number of disabled students are enrolling at IHEs  More than 11% of all students report a disability  Students with learning disabilities are a growing segment of this group
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   Accessible spacesin the classroom  Ensure that curricular materials are available for all students regardless of disability  Supplementing traditional materials with audiovisual and technology  Training for faculty on dealing with learning disabilities and physical disabilities  Working with disability offices on accommodation of student needs
• 12.
   Ciszek, M.P. Diversifying Diversity. College & Research Libraries News, 73 (9), 547-549.  Cuyjet, M. J., Howard-Hamilton, M. F., and Cooper, D. L., editors. Multiculturalism on Campus: Theory, Models, and Practices for Understanding Diversity and Creating Inclusion. Stylus Publishing: Sterling, VA, 2011.
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  Matthew P. Ciszek PennState Shenango [email protected]