Diversity in Higher Education

Jacky Sam

Section A02

Response 3: "Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in California: How Higher Education Diversity Benefits Our Community"

Universities receive applications from students of various backgrounds, so it is important to consider the benefits of diversity. Some argue for the development of cognitive skills from diverse experiences shared by students, while others support the lower levels of prejudice that come from greater intergroup contact. Although these experiences will help students enhance their competencies as future professionals, a diverse higher education also has its cons. (Don't get me wrong, I support diversity in higher education, but just like any other argument, there will always be pros and cons)

Diversity can create conflicts for everyone, including professors. Minority students face some form of discrimination by other students, often times through verbal abuse, which leads to feelings of inferiority. They also feel singled out by their differences in skin color, religion, and sometimes, language. Language barriers often provoke prejudice against minority students and lessens their ability to participate in classroom activities. Although some minority students may have overcome these conflicts, others still continue to struggle.

  

Question: What places benefit from diversity? In what circumstances will diversity be more beneficial in one place versus another?