Diversity Matters: Tasks

Diversity Matters is a college level excercise and training moudule for preservice teachers. It challenges participants to confront their misconceptions and preconceived ideas concerning student diversity. Students must work together to provide solutions for eight diversity related scenarios which is likely to occur in a real classroom setting. The activity utilizes the following methods to accomplish its objectives: cooperative learning, discussion, problem solving, and discovery.

Tasks and Instructions.

1. Get into designated groups
You will be separated into groups so that you can discuss your views and opinions concerning diversity.

2. View introduction
From the homepage of this site view the WebQuest Introduction by clicking on the link in the navigation or below. There are thirteen topics that you should become familiar with before you begin.

>> read introduction now

3. Read the provided diversity scenarios
Every group member should read each diversity scenario thoroughly before discussing a solution.

>> read scenarios now

4. Brainstorm
After reading each scenario, designate one group member to jot down everyones initial thoughts. Remember instances from your own past. Also reflecting on your own misconceptions can help you formulate a solution.

5. Explore provided resource links
Use the resources provided to help formulate a solution to each scenario. Remember to include any relevant court cases.

6. Write solutions to each scenario
Write at least an 8 sentence paragraph solution for each diversity scenario. Point out misconceptions (on the part of the class and the teacher), and describe ways to resolve the issue. Also include any relevant court cases as a part of your solution.

7. Record solutions on provided poster
Write your solutions to each scenario on the provided poster.

8. Participate in class discussion
Near the end of class we will discuss each group's solutions for the diversity scenarios. Designate a member of your group to present the solution, but be prepared to provide input to the discussion.

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