Abstract:
This manuscript presents learning experiences of 30 college students, 13 from a historically black university and 17 from a traditionally white university in neighboring states who participated in a two-year multicultural leadership development program designed to prepare students to assume leadership positions in a multicultural society. All students were enrolled in agricultural or human sciences programs at the two universities. Four joint meetings between the two groups helped facilitate cultural awareness and interaction among the students, while monthly campus-based meetings provided reflection and critical thinking around diversity and leadership issues. Analysis of student growth along several social dimensions suggests that the program resulted in modest improvements in social skills and diversity awareness of the students. Multicultural interaction is enhanced by the ability to distinguish between one's personal view and the views of others, and to discuss delicate issues with sensitivity and candor. Reflective reasoning, critical thinking skills, and various experiential learning activities were major vehicles used to advance social skills and diversity awareness.
Keywords:
diversity, multicultural, leadership project
 Download Article | [ ] | 438 kB |
