ED 5010 UNIT 1 DISCUSSION 2

Discussion 2 PART 1

Diversity and Multiculturalism

In this course, you will consider the topics of diversity and multiculturalism. Specifically, the two competencies related to these two topics are:

1. Create inclusive learning environments that demonstrate respect and value of diverse backgrounds.
2. Incorporate multicultural perspectives into curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

Consider these competencies, and complete the first two columns of a KWL chart about them. A KWL chart is a way to activate background knowledge and to stimulate thinking about a topic. The "K" stands for what you KNOW about the topic, and the "W" stands for what you WANT to know about the topic. Using the KWL Chart template linked in the Resources, complete the K and W sections. Post the chart to the discussion board as an attachment. Then, in the discussion box, discuss the following:

• What content related to these topics feels "solid" to you? In other words, about which content do you have the most firm knowledge and experience?
• What about these topics feels "muddy" to you? In other words, with which topics do you have less knowledge and experience?
• How does this knowledge and the areas of gap impact your instructional practice?
• How would you and your students benefit if you strengthened your knowledge/skills in this area?

For this discussion, you are not required to cite sources in support of your post and KWL entries. The discussion is asking you to assess the state of your own knowledge and, therefore, there are no right or wrong answers. However, if you wish to make reference to academic literature to enrich your discussion you are encouraged to do so.

Response Guidelines

Respond to at least one colleague. Identify similarities and differences between your colleague's KWL chart and your own. To what do you attribute those differences?

Provide one suggestion for your colleague in regard to how to address what he or she wants to know about these topics.

Post your initial responses in the discussion area by Thursday at 11:59 p.m. (Central time zone). Comments to other learners' posts are due by Sunday at 11:59 p.m. (Central time zone).

KWL Chart on Diversity and Multiculturalism

Consider the topics of diversity and multiculturalism. Focus specifically on these two course competencies:

• Create inclusive learning environments that demonstrate respect and value of diverse backgrounds.
• Incorporate multicultural perspectives into curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

Complete the first two columns below. In the first column, describe what you already know about these topics. In the middle column, list things that you want to know about these topics. In your last assessment, you will revisit this chart to fill in the final column – what you learned.