Diversity 101

In this inservice, Teachers will explore the basics of Cultural Diversity. Participants will explore both the challenges and strengths of working with a diverse population. In particular, we will focus on the different kinds of diversity, barriers to understanding and appreciating diversity such as stereotypes, and strategies for making diversity a positive characteristic in any setting. Special attention will be paid to preparing ourselves for interacting with diversity by building our own awareness of how we see and interact with differences and the role that power imbalances play in diverse interactions. Lastly, participants will see how literature can be used to educate and increase appreciation of diverse cultures.

9:00-12:00: During this time segment participants will explore and/ or participate in the following:
-Definition of Cultural Diversity and Cultural Competency
-Core Types of Diversity in our populations
-Impact of Diversity on Educational Institutions
-Challenges and strengths in working with Diverse populations
-How stereotypes affect our ability to work effectively with diversity
-The importance of self-exploration in facilitating a positive environment in working with diversity
-Power difference between diverse populations and how they affect our interactions with each other
12:00-1:00 ( Lunch)

1:00-2:30: During this segment participants will explore and/or participate in the following:
-Continue explanation of how power differences affect diverse populations
-strategies for facilitating diversity in the classroom
- Using literature as a teaching tool in diversity
-General Questions from Teachers/participants

This inservice will involve a variety of interactive exercises as well as a lecture format.
Items needed for Diversity 101 

VCR/TV
Overhead Projector and Screen
CD Player 
Easel and Markers
Easel Paper
Pencil/pens for participants
Paper for participant
Oranges, enough for each participant
2 bags of candy
14 chairs in the front of the room
4 pairs of scissors
4- five boxes of crayons
extra colored markers
1 package multicolored Sticky notes
1 package multicolored index cards/ 
-one package of all white index cards/enough for each participant
-stickers( like the kind you give to children) any kind is find/2 or three packages
-Balloons , enough for each participant
envelopes, enough for each participant
-Master packet copied for all participants( will be sent through the mail0

Note: Please have training in a room that is comfortable and have snacks and drinks for participants