Understanding Human Differences: Multicultural Education for a Diverse America - Softcover

For Multicultural Education/Diversity as well as General Education courses Understanding Human Differences is the best single text for introducing students to the study of diversity in Twenty-First Century America and provides a clear conceptual framework for teaching about diversity.The author uses clear examples, lucid language, and engaging activities to involve students in thinking through fundamental ideas that ground their understanding of diversity. The author investigates three converging elements in his examination of human differences: individual attitudes and behaviors, cultural expectations, and institutional policies and practices. This examination provides the basis for the conceptual organization of the text.

A best-selling text for introducing readers to issues of diversity in U.S. society and education, Understanding Human Differences hones in on the study of diversity in 21st Century America while presenting historical perspectives and background. The text’s clear conceptual framework for teaching about diversity grounded in interdisciplinary research from the social sciences including education, sociology, biology, history, etc. successfully prepares both education and non-education majors to engage in discussions about diversity in America..

The popular inquiry format of this text encourages readers to discuss and debate topics, so they gain a deeper understanding of the issues addressed within each chapter. The author looks at all of the "isms" of U.S. society (sexism, classism, racism, etc.) through three overlapping lenses: the individual, institutions, and culture. Its strong historical perspective and balance of theory and application not only prepares pre-service teachers to be more accepting and successful working with diverse students in their classrooms, but also prepares students in other fields to be more sensitive to the issues affecting the diverse individuals they will meet and work with throughout their lives.

New to This Edition

• NEW! Discussion of culturally relevant teaching in U.S. classrooms helps teacher education students understand this innovative educational approach (ch. 13).
• NEW! Discussion of ageism calls attention to such issues as elder abuse and teenage unemployment (Ch. 11).
• NEW! Expanded discussion of Muslim stereotypes clarifies the nature of these stereotypes and how they are presented in popular culture (Chs. 2 and 6)
• NEW! Updated content on anti-immigrant attitudes in the United States, especially toward undocumented workers, including examining research that contradicts common but misinformed perceptions of recent immigration (Ch. 4).
• NEW! Extensive updates on the growth and the benefits of linguistic diversity in the U.S. (Ch. 4)
• NEW! Revised section on institutional racism in politics to reflect the election of President Barack Obama, with discussion of recent changes and the problems that yet remain (Ch. 8).
• NEW! Discussion of disability culture and Deaf culture (Ch. 12).
• NEW! Expanded discussion of education for children and youth with disabilities (Ch. 12).
• NEW! References to brand new assignments and activities on new MyEducationLab for Multicultural Education website.