The Understanding Diversity Series can also be taken in an online format.
The online workshop will span six weeks beginning with a face-to-face orientation.
Following the orientation, participants of the workshop will work together
through a series of online
interactive exercises, discussions and reading materials.
Participants must sign up through Staff Development and Professional Services to participate in the full six weeks of the
course, and a certificate will be awarded upon completion of the series.
Space is limited to 15 people for this special workshop. For more information,
please contact Staff Development and Professional Services, 530-752-1766.
This
course is designed to foster understanding of cultural differences in gender,
ethnicity, sexual orientation, and spirituality/religion. We will explore our
own cultural identities as well as learn about those of other class members.
Through class discussions, readings, and personal reflection, we will learn
how differences may manifest in the campus environment. Additionally, we will
discuss strategies for facilitating learning experiences in a multicultural
community.
Course Overview & Orientation
This face-to-face meeting will provide an introduction to the course and the
online learning environment. There is a mandatory orientation session, after
which the course continues for six weeks.
Module One: Cultural Identities
This first module will give us the opportunity to identify our social and cultural identities. We will also learn about the identities of others as we begin to understand how social group memberships impact our day-to-day lives.
Module Two: Gender
Women and men exhibit different behaviors, communication styles, and approachs
to learning in the classroom. This module will raise our awareness of how we
are socialized based on gender. We will also examine strategies which provide
optimal and equitable work experiences for both women and men.
Module Three: Sexual Orientation and Transgender
There are many misconceptions and stereotypes about people who are lesbian, gay,
bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI). This module will offer knowledge
and information about the lives and experiences of people who are LGBTI and will
provide
useful
strategies for creating environments which are inclusive and respectful.
Module Four: Ethnicity
This module provides an opportunity to reflect on our racial/ethnic heritage
and to learn how our personal experiences have affected our cross cultural interactions.
We will also gain an understanding of how racism is manifested in our organization
and
how we can work to create just and equitable work environments.
Module Five: Religious/Spirituality Diversity
Our campus community includes a rich diversity of religious and spiritual beliefs
and practices. This provides us with both opportunities and challenges as we
strive to create work environments that respect our various values and observances.
In this module, we will explore strategies for honoring religious and spiritual
differences in the workplace.
Applying the Learning: Community Project
This final module is designed to foster application of the concepts presented
in the course. Participants will choose from a list of possible projects or create
their own to
deepen their understanding of a specific community.