Psychology (PSYC) 210

Overview

Psychology 210: Experiential Learning in the Celebration of Diversity employs a blend of Adult Learning Theory, Experiential Learning Theory, and Transformative Learning Theory to engage the learner in a unique and participative set of learning experiences. We are increasingly interacting with people from other countries, backgrounds, and cultures at all levels. Increased awareness and celebration of cultural diversity can translate into more tolerance, respect, and appreciation for the uniqueness of all people and cultures. Students will utilize a process of “ambassadorship” roles and blended learning theories to teach to and learn from someone who has a birth culture different from their own. Selected aspects of culture include cuisine, art, literature, sculpture, music, dress, festivals, myths, folkways, mores, fairy tales, and legends. This process of “partnered ambassadors” allows students to experience and celebrate cultural similarities as well as the differences.

Outline

Upon successful completion, the student should be able to:

• Define “cultural ambassador” and demonstrate enhancing ambassador behaviours, i.e., positive, engaged attitude; open-ended questions to expand the discussion; close-ended questions to prompt for specifics; use of eye contact and expression; stating understanding of what was heard; summarizing key points.
• Compare and contrast “ambassador” behaviours and effective communication skills used in cultural outing situations.
• Identify and analyze the changes in cultural beliefs, values and assumptions, through the use of a before and after student cultural profile.
• Identify and analyze the similarities and differences of his/her personal cultural heritage with someone who has a different cultural heritage.
• Develop / enhance theoretical knowledge base, i.e., Experiential Learning Theory, Transformative Learning Theory, and Adult Learning Theory.
• Create a personalized cultural web site.
• Enhance written communication and research skills [APA Standards, where applicable].

Evaluation

To receive credit for PSYC 210, you must complete a Definition, Introduction, Cultural Profile, Reflective Research Paper, three essays, and a Cultural Web Site, and must achieve a composite course grade of at least “D” (50 percent). The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:.

To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University's online Calendar.