Week 1 Discussion

This week, you have begun learning about the complexities of culture and diversity, and developing an understanding that being respectful of and responsive to all types of diversity is an ongoing process. At the same time, you have been challenged to examine your own diversity (i.e., your cultural framework) in order to know yourself better and gain perspective on how your cultural framework might affect your attitudes, perceptions and interactions.

Before you participate in this week's Discussion, review "Guidelines for Supportive Group Discussions" (p. 22 of your course text) and take the "Race Test" and the "Gender Test" at http://www.understandingprejudice.org/iat/index2.htm

Then, consider the following:

• What new understandings of diversity and bias have you gained in this first week of the course?
• Why is it important for people who work with young children and their families to understand their own diversity/cultural framework and biases?

By Day 3: