Course

10809172 Introduction to Diversity Studies
Course Information
Description
This course introduces the study of diversity from a local to a global perspective using a holistic, interdisciplinary approach that encourages exploration and prepares students to work in a diverse environment. The course introduces basic diversity concepts, examines the impact of bias and power differentials among groups, explores the use of culturally responsive communication strategies, and compares forces that shape diversity in an international context.
Total Credits
3
Course Competencies (Course Outcomes)
  1. Differentiate basic concepts related to diversity
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    define basic concepts
    outline the social construction of basic diversity concepts
    identify patterns of inequities
    examine how diversity concepts impact work life
    examine how diversity concepts are related to your field of study
    examine how diversity concepts influence your personal life
    examine sociodemographic variables
    use terminology related to diversity concepts

  2. Evaluate patterns of intergroup relationships
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    define marginalization
    compare characteristics of marginalized groups
    analyze the relationship between institutional structures and individual behavior
    examine forms of response to systemic oppression
    analyze examples of agency
    analyze examples of resistance
    analyze examples of adaptation
    evaluate how marginalization affects groups
    examine forms of systemic oppression of marginalized groups

  3. Explain how power relations shape privilege within society
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    explain the concept of power
    explain the concept of privilege
    analyze the relationship between power and privilege
    evaluate the interaction of power and privilege in your social context
    evaluate the interaction of power and privilege in your field of study
    explain the concept of being an ally

  4. Examine the impact of bias on social relationships
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    analyze underlying social forces that influence biases
    define bias
    examine patterns of biases in a field of study
    analyze how biases are reinforced through social institutions
    identify personal biases
    explain how bias effects behavior
    assess the impact of bias on social relationships
    evaluate factors that mitigate biases

  5. Apply culturally responsive communication strategies
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    analyze how culture influences communication
    identify characteristics of culturally responsive communication
    evaluate culturally responsive communication in social institutions
    analyze the consequences of differential communication for marginalized groups
    examine how power affects group communication

  6. Compare forces that shape diversity in an international context
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    compare colonialism and neocolonialism
    analyze globalization
    compare power structures internationally
    relate social justice to cultural values
    explain how global social forces influence local social context

  7. Analyze the differential treatment of migrant groups
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    define types of migration
    analyze immigration policies over time
    identify recurring patterns of migration
    describe the forces that shape migration
    evaluate the social dynamics associated with migration
    analyze how migrant groups advocate for systemic changes

  8. Evaluate systemic oppression
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    explain intersectionality
    identify the role of the individual in perpetuating systemic oppression
    identify the role of the individual in challenging systemic oppression
    analyze group adaptation to systemic oppression

  9. Explore social rights and inequalities
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    define social justice
    identify historical examples of social injustice
    identify ways people can advocate for social justice
    evaluate how individuals can function as allies for marginalized groups

  10. Examine the role of social movements in effecting structural change
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written, Graphic and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    examine how social movements relate to systemic oppression
    identify sources of culturally responsive representation
    analyze practices marginalized groups employ to combat systemic oppression
    evaluate methods used to build equity among groups