Open Minds to Equality: A Sourcebook of Learning
Activities to Affirm Diversity and Promote Equality
The third
edition of Open Minds to Equality: A Sourcebook of Learning Activities to Affirm Diversity and
Promote Equality, recently published by Rethinking Schools, is a wonderful
new addition to your resources on teaching respect for diversity. This updated
classic celebrating diversity and equality, offers several new activities and a
revised resource and bibliography sections.
The
activities are designed to help educators understand and work to eliminate the
negative attitudes some students may have toward their peers based on race,
gender, class, age, language, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability
and religion. By encouraging participation, cooperation and democracy, these
activities serve as valuable tools for effectively achieving changes in
perception and promoting diversity and equality.
Beginning
with trust building and collaboration, the authors present a series of
sequential approaches. The second stage in this process discusses recognizing
stereotypes and discrimination practiced by people and institutions, and the
third focuses on creating change, self confidence and collective
responsibility.
Adaptable
for different ages and situations, the book is particularly useful for
teachers, facilitators and curriculum specialists committed to helping young
people value differences among people. I recommend it highly.
Another
exciting fact: The book costs only $ 24.95, significantly less than the two
earlier editions. It is available from the publisher or by contacting CRC.
About the Authors
Nancy
Schneidewins is a professor in the Educational Studies Department of the State
University of New York, New Paltz, where she coordinates and teaches in the
Master’s program in Humanistic and Multi-Cultural Education.
Ellen
Davidson is an assistant professor in the Department of Education at
Reviewed by Priscilla Prutzman