FLASHFACTS

Diversity

Diversity is "otherness" or human qualities that are different from our own and outside the group, to which we belong, yet are present in other individuals and groups.

Diversity can be distinguished into two categories called primary and secondary.

Primary dimensions are as follows: age, ethnicity, gender, physical abilities/qualities, race, and sexual orientation.

Secondary dimensions of diversity are those things that can be changed, and include but are not limited to educational background, geographic location, income, marital status, military experience, parental status, religious beliefs, and work experience.(Diversity at UMCF. Moving Towards Community Plan 1995)

What are colleges doing?

The importance of having diversity is far reaching into the intellectual integrity of student behavior. Colleges now offer a variety of courses that are designed to encourage and enhance their awareness. It also gives students the understanding of how to cope with situations that include may issue. The colleges have instituted the courses across the curriculum revising general education models on U.S. and global pluralism.

What can students do?

Students can get enrolled in various courses that are offered by the universities and they could get involved with other student diversity programs as well. Some students may be able to take advantage of special opportunities in the community that help promote diversity. A student that needs to be more diverse could find a mentoring program that could help them with their level of understanding.

More Information Available:

On the web at www.jhsph.edu

Or by contacting the Student Affairs Office

Back