This book significantly advances discussion of the mission of higher education in today’s multicultural environment and global economy. It sets out the challenges and considerations that must be addressed by administrative leaders, by trustees, and others who shape the vision and direction of the institution – but most particularly by academic deans and faculty.The author makes the case that the inclusion of diversity and globalization in disciplinary work contributes to the research agendas of individual faculty and their departments, aligns with scholarly values, and promotes such student learning goals as tolerance of ambiguity and paradox, critical thinking and creativity. He offers a strategic vision of success, backed by theory and examples of effective application, for creating transformative change; and provides a roadmap to implementing inclusive pedagogical practices and curricula. With implementation dependent on leadership and participation at every level of an institution, everyone with a stake in its future should read this book.
James A. Anderson is Chancellor of Fayetteville State University. He is also Professor of Psychology. He was previously Vice President for Student Success and the Vice-Provost for Institutional Assessment and Diversity at the University at Albany. Ronald A. Crutcher is President of Wheaton College.
Table of Contents
Foreword—Ronald A. Crutcher; Introduction; 1. Defining Diversity in Learning-Centered Contexts; 2. Shifting the Organizational Perspective on Diversity—Institutional and Academic Change; 3. Shaping the Academic Discussion about Diversity; 4. Accounting for Diversity within the Teaching and Learning Paradigm; 5. Practical Teaching Strategies that Engage Student Differences; 6. Balancing the Traditional Curriculum with Inclusion and Diversity; 7. Empowering the Voice of Diverse Students in the College Classroom; 8. Responsibility and Accountability—A Willingness to Examine Our Promises and Processes; Appendix A. Summary of Findings in Relation to Research Questions; Appendix B. Perceptions of Academic Leadership and Competency and Diversity Outcomes; Appendix C. Organizational Assessment of Diversity and Leadership; Appendix D. Student Survey on Classroom Environment; Index.
