IDEAS

Idea 7: Debriefings Following Class Discussion

Why is it important?

When teaching students about a topic as rich as multiculturalism and diversity, one is obligated to assist students in processing the information in a way that allows the most benefits for the students. While class discussions, movies, field trips, etc. are all excellent ways to present the information to students, they need a way to digest the information to ensure that what is learned will have a long-lasting effect.

Instructions

• Following class discussion have the students use the following guidelines to write about their experiences:
• State your and/ or your instructors objectives for the activity/experience;
• Describe your participation;
• Your personal reaction to the activity;
• Interpret the activity as it connects to the literature and other media;
• Apply the learning to your personal and professional responsibilities;
• Identify whether or not you met the original objectives;
• Commit to a plan for improving future interactions with diverse others or diversity issues.

Advantages

• Helps consolidate the information learned.
• Students will not only better recall the information gained from the activity, but will have additionally learned information after critically thinking about what the objectives were and how they were or should have been met.
• Provides students with a chance to ask questions about the activity and self reflect.

Adapted from:
Timpson, W.M, Yang, R., Borrayo, E., & Canetto S.S. (2005). 147 Practical Tips for Teaching Diversity.