Module 1: Working Definition of Diversity Discussion
How do you define “diversity,” and what key points in the essays by Billikopf, Shen, Mairs (at least one key point from each) can help us identify important complications we should consider when we talk about diversity and try to write in ways considerate of a diverse audience? Your response should be about 200 words in length and should be posted by the end of the due date listed on the calendar.
Please take time to read the following 2 websites and document:
Cultural Differences? Or, are we really that different?
(Links to an external site.)
by Gregorio Billikopf. Note the many cultural differences that Billikopf calls attention to in this piece, at the same time he speaks to the dangers of stereotyping. What cultural traits might someone link with you? Would they be accurate links?
https://nature.berkeley.edu/ucce50/ag-labor/7article/article01.htm
The Classroom and the Wider Culture: Identifying as Key to Learning English Composition
(Links to an external site.)
by Fan Shen. Fan Shen explores disconnects he experienced between his Chinese identity and that favored in English writing courses. What might you make of your own connects and disconnects with writing in school?
In File
On Being a Cripple
(Links to an external site.)
by Nancy Mairs. Note Mairs’ consideration over the term she uses to help define herself. Think about other such debates you might have heard about cultural labels. Given that this is a writing course, I’m thinking that this reading not only helps us to think deeply about the words we use, but also to think deeply about the political ramifications of our language choices. What do you think?
