What is a diverse learning environment?
In brief outline, its structural components are:
- content viewed from more than one cultural perspective
- learner-centered as well as teacher-centered classroom philosophy: faculty member as facilitator as well as source of knowledge
- interactive teaching techniques: student/student as well as instructor/students
- supportive, inclusive classroom climate that recognizes the need for identity support as well as thinking outside individuals' cultural parameters
In the AAUP/ACE report some faculty indicated that they had not changed content, but still found that discussion in a diverse environment produced better ourcomes. Note as well that a diverse learning environment can exist in classrooms where there is only limited racial/ethnic diversity.
