- 2-Hours Per Module
- Sessions can also be tailored to the needs of the state or local affiliate.
NEA views the diversity that exists among our members, staff, students, and communities as a great asset for public education and works to maximize this asset through the National Diversity Training Program.
The Diversity Training Program has 4 learning objectives with accompanying modules:
- Understanding Diversity
- Developing Cultural Identity
- Reacting to Differences
- Valuing Diversity
Understanding Diversity
Take part in an interactive process that helps you better understand the language and imagery of diversity in light of America’s changing demographics and the importance of diversity in light of America’s changing demographics and the importance of diversity to NEA’s history and philosophy. Explore the primary and secondary dimensions of diversity, the attitudes they can spawn, and the infinite ways people are different.
Developing Cultural Identity
Our values, beliefs, and self-concept, most of which are developed at a very early
age, affect the way we think, behave, and make assumptions about people who
are different from us. Take part in interactive exercises that reveal the nature of
the socialization process, and examine models that show how we learn about our
own culture and the culture of others. Learn how the absence of information—the
silent teacher—can contribute to assumptions, even bigotry, about the status and
basic rights of people who are different.
Reacting to Differences
The treatment we extend to members of “other” groups is rooted in perceptions, values, and beliefs about them. Participants will view and discuss a video designed to trigger critical thinking about prejudice, power, and entitlement—all of which lead to the emergence of privileged and oppressed groups. Participants will engage in a deeper exploration of their own experiences as members of “insider” groups who enjoy privileges and as members of “outsider” groups who systematically experience disadvantages. At the end of the session, participants will plan actions they can take to help ensure a just society for all groups.
Valuing Diversity
How do you respond to the diversity issue? Are you better at discussing or reacting to some dimensions of diversity than others, for instance, race vs. sexual orientation? Although you may quickly react when offended by things others say or do, do you recognize when and how you offend others? Participants will identify strategies to communicate more courageously about diversity; explore how to fully embrace and demonstrate the value we place on the diversity among our students, their families, and our coworkers; and examine how to maximize the impact of our diversity work in schools.