Diversity
Effective service-learning values diversity in its participants, practice, and outcomes. Understanding diversity and its impact on service-learning is critical for effective practice. This toolbox includes project examples, articles, and links to help you better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with diversity, and approaches for improving diversity in service-learning programs.
The Importance of Eldering
November 1, 2004
Every year at the National Service-Learning Conference, the Gathering of Elders provides a venue where elders from different cultures can share their wisdom with conference attendees, particularly youths. Louise Franklin Sheehy, a 2004 participant, discusses the importance of intergenerational collaboration in building healthy communities and a new generation of leaders. more »
Gadugi: A Model of Service-Learning for Native American Communities
Description of the history, tenets, and early work of the National Indian Youth Leadership Project. Highlights the benefits of service-learning for Native American students as it relates to traditional beliefs and the growing leadership among indigenous youths to guide the next generations. (Phi Delta Kappan, June 1991)
Investment in the Work of the World
NYLC's call for the service-learning field to address HIV/AIDS. Includes facts and information about current prevention efforts in Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, and the United States. (The Generator, Summer 2003)
Service-Learning and Multicultural/Multiethnic Perspectives
In-depth study of missionary ideology, diversity, and equity issues. Thoughtful vignettes illustrate the history of service in communities of color, including Native American, immigrant, and refugee groups. Issues of diversity and understanding often turn into lessons about equity that can lead to social action and change. (Phi Delta Kappan, May 2000)
Cultural Diversity Unites Students
United States
When a Head Start teacher expressed the need for books and games for her students, a 5th-grade class decided it could do more than just raise funds to purchase materials. The students created books and games, tailoring them to each Head Start student.
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Culture Bus
United States
Bus shelters are some of the most visible items on many roads. Second-grade students decorated a shelter in an effort to spread their message of cultural appreciation.
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Exhibiting Diversity
United States
After much discussion about the cultures represented within their classrooms, 3rd through 5th graders grew curious about the groups present in their neighborhood. They created a classroom museum to educate the community about its diversity. more »
Intergenerational Celebration of Culture
United States
When one teacher introduced a culture curriculum to her 4th-grade students, she discovered that few knew much about their heritages. She and the students brainstormed a fun way to investigate their cultural backgrounds and in the process connected with some interesting community members. more »
