Diversity
Impact: African American Males in Education
Definition of Diversity
According to http://gladstone.uoregon.edu/ "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
orientation, socio-economic status, 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."
and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious
orientation, socio-economic status, 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."
Perception of the African American Male Learner
A diversity issue impacting education is the African American Male. Although there is not much empirical data to support the theory, it is important to consider the the impact on students with teachers of like races.
The following article addresses diversity as it relates to the African American Male.
Strategies to embrace diversity in schools
Provide students with highly qualified teachers of the same race.
" On average, students’ performance improved by roughly 2 to 3 percentile points during their first year with a teacher of the same race."
Strategies to embrace diversity in schools
"African American male student need to see images of themselves where they are not portrayed as inferior or subordinate to white culture. Hang positive images in your classroom that reinforce the beauty of African American culture."
Strategies to embrace diversity in schools
"If your African American males can't sit still for long periods of time or listen to lecture format, do not send a request for special education paperwork. African American students, at times, might struggle with lecture format in grades."