Definition of Diversity The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect. It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio- economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies. It is the exploration of these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual.

Iowa State University Liberal Arts and Sciences " Diversity" means more than just acknowledging and/or tolerating difference. Diversity is a set of conscious practices that involve: Understanding and appreciating interdependence of humanity, cultures, and the natural environment. Practicing mutual respect for qualities and experiences that are different from our own. Understanding that diversity includes not only ways of being but also ways of knowing; Recognizing that personal, cultural and institutionalized discrimination creates and sustains privileges for some while creating and sustaining disadvantages for others; Building alliances across differences so that we can work together to eradicate all forms of discrimination.

General Strategies Recognize any biases or stereotypes you may have absorbed. Treat each student as an individual, and respect each student for who he or she is. Rectify any language patterns or case examples that exclude or demean any groups. Do your best to be sensitive to terminology. Get a sense of how students feel about the cultural climate in your classroom. /diverse.htm

Ways to Integrate Diversity Introductions Videos Class Discussions Materials for Keyboarding Any way you can think of to get the message across!

Videos The Odd Couple Challenge Day

Quotes Anne FrankAnne Frank: We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same. Lillian HellmanLillian Hellman: Since when do you have to agree with people to defend them from injustice? Robert A. HeinleinRobert A. Heinlein: One man's religion is another man's belly laugh. Robert F. KennedyRobert F. Kennedy: Ultimately, America's answer to the intolerant man is diversity, the very diversity which our heritage of religious freedom has inspired.

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References Associated Students University of Oregon, Definition of Diversity, University of Oregon, Retrieved March 11, 2009 Web site: html Davis, B. G. (1999). Diversity And Complexity In The Classroom Considerations Of Race, Ethnicity, And Gender from Tools for Teaching. University of California, Berkeley. Retrieved March 11, 2009 Web site: uidebk/teachtip/diverse.htm