Leading Change in Social Justice and Diversity ((3 Credits))

Catalog description

At the heart of any educator's practice lies an intertwining web of relationships. Whether in relationship with oneself, one's students, or with the world, one's practice is strengthened by knowing one's location in order to foment change in one's context and site of practice. Positionality, or where one locates his/herself in relationship to race, class, ethnicity and sexual orientation influences their role as adult education practitioners, researchers, and leaders in the field. Students will be asked to reflect on their roles as individuals and group members of their own particular race, gender, class, ethnicity and sexual orientation position. In addition to this, students will examine concepts and perceptions that have influenced them as well as society in terms of both the personal and professional. Students will also critically examine various definitions of diversity and models of diversity training. They will work in teams to consider how to assess and take action for diversity in institutional settings. They will use instruments such as The Diversity Rubric (AACU's 'Self-Assessment Rubric for Institutionalization of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Higher Education') at their own institutions, or ESC to establish and audit relevant accomplishments, challenges and potential action plans. Note: This course requires students to attend one face-to-face residency. Registration of this course will incur a residency fee.