Tapping Diversity Using the Focused Conversation Method

Participants will learn techniques and methods for preparing, initiating, and reflecting on discussion and dialogue sessions in one-to-one and group situations. Conversations for evaluation information; planning; coaching and mentoring; interpreting information, decision-making; and managing and supervising will be reviewed and demonstrated. Practice time is included to prepare and facilitate conversations with other participants and each participant will leave with a prepared conversation plan for an upcoming event. This workshop introduces participants to one of the facilitation methods developed by The Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA).  

Different Strokes for Different Folks:
Putting People Styles to Work for Building Effective Teams

It is popular today to say we value differences--but do we? Do we think our co-worker talks too fast, one works too slow, and another wants to socialize too often? All of a sudden we realize that difference do matter and that these can be a source of friction on the job. Learning to recognize our own work styles and those of our co-workers can increase our productivity and build a spirit of teamwork. The Social Styles Inventory used in this session can help you understand and tap differences and improve your relationships at work, home, and anywhere you work with other people.  

Building Community Support for Equity at School

Equitable schools require long-term commitment for sustainability and ultimately reflect community attitudes toward equity and diversity. In this session participants will: (1) examine the key characteristics of community support for school equity, (2) identify the elements of cultural competence that are needed to create effective relationships with community members, and (3) receive information about the tools, skills, and resources required to create collaborative action plans for supporting student success. 

Equity for Learning: Multicultural Curriculum Development

There is an abundance of materials, methods, and resources now available that are labeled "multicultural." Educators, parents, and community workers need to know how to evaluate these educational activities and how to incorporate them into school and extra curricular experiences. Participants in this workshop will explore multicultural education issues and practices, and their application to curricula.

Workplace Diversity

Many times conflicts are labeled diversity dilemmas when they are really conflicts around values, issues, attitudes, and styles. This workshop examines the need for considering a variety of competencies for effective communication and management styles. Participants will gain tools and resources to use in workplaces and communities for increasing team and individual effectiveness. Through small group discussions and role-plays, participants will build confidence in addressing diversity issues.