Human Diversity in Education: An Integrative Approach

Based on the assumption that it is at the level of the individual teacher where the change that must occur with regard to diversity in schools begins, it assumes that teachers must learn to incorporate issues of diversity in all of their teaching, including, but not limited to their interactions with children, parents, other teachers and the community.

The text contains introductory case studies that are referred back to in a series of chapter-ending critical incidents that prompt students to apply what they learned in the chapter. Important topics covered include: intercultural development of individuals, globalization and international education, religion in society and schools, gender and sexuality, exceptionality, and diversity with respect to early childhood.

That being the case, pre-service teachers and those considering a career in education need to be able to work with those most unlike them. They will need to examine the barriers they have build in their own mind, and create new categories for dealing with difference. The text points out that most pre-service teachers want to work in communities similar from whence they came. With the present teaching force being made up of an 88% White-Middle-Class and 66% female, well, that may not be a reality for those pre-service teachers once they become certified. Human diversity in education: an integrative approach addresses many of the issues that pre-service teachers and others who wish to (or actually do) work in education must understand.

This text is excellent for illuminating diversity and multiculturalism. It is rich in information and resources and information. It will be a most welcome addition to the shelf of any educator or student serious about diversity and multicultural education.