DIVERSITY
DIVERSITY
Let me first start by saying that I experience few diversity issues in my classrooms. My extensive exposure and research to international studies at university, along with master and doctoral studies, has enabled a broad and thorough understanding of the educational barriers international students face in American schools, and has provided me the opportunity to apply my knowledge to aid in their assimilation—this, in addition to teaching master classes in Shanghai and Manaus and special US-based classes for Taiwanese and Thai students.
Having been an educator in the international community for years, leading countless faculty at numerous institutions of higher learning in South Florida, I can safely say that the biggest challenge international students face in attending American, online schools is the varying degree of dedication and commitment afforded by faculty, and the chaos that ensues when inconsistencies arise.
I speak several languages and have lived in a few countries and many multicultural cities…nothing surprises me.
Sabrina,
Glad you don't have many diversity issues, but don't just think of diversity as race/country/language. Diversity includes gender, age, abilities/disabilities, etc. You are too awesome to speak several languages though. That's great for your students.
Sabrina,
When you discuss the varying degree of dedication and commitment and how chaos ensues when inconsistencies arise, are you referring to inconsistencies in communication or inconsistencies in practice on part of the instructor?
Stephanie,
This is a good question for Sabrina. I could be both inconsistencies in communication and practice.
Thanks!
Dr. Tena B. Crews
I agree Dr. Crews. As I teach a number of management courses, I explain to my students that diversity goes well beyond race. Other aspects that constitute as diversity includes education, training, experience, personality etc.
Zakevia
Dr. Zakevia,
Right on. We are on the same track. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for your input in these forums.
