Counseling and Cultural Competence in a Global Society

Catalog description

Counselor cultural competency is essential to successfully meet the needs of an increasingly diverse student population in the American educational system. Through a mixed methods approach of cultural immersion, readings, class activities, participation in cultural organizations, and forums with cultural and educational leaders, candidates will plan and strategize methods by which school counselors recognize cultural differences, acquire strategies to collaborate with families, and equalize educational experiences for every student within a school setting. Candidates will experience engagement with different cultural groups and seek to broaden their world view and global perspective through these interactions. Candidates will develop contemporary socio cultural viewpoints on student achievement and educational equity and access. Course topics will address cultural differences and counseling theory, ethnicity and race, bi-lingual student support, learning ability and disability, gender influences, immigration and assimilation, student educational aspirations and the influence of school counselor leadership and collaboration.