Diversity Classroom Games
Diversity refers to the multiple identities that may be present in a group. Common identity categories include race, class, gender and sexual orientation. Diversity games are activities that help learners explore issues affecting identity categories. Educators use diversity games to foster cultural sensitivity and to help students understand current and historical events. Because of the rapid changes in the U.S. population in recent years, many schools think it is important for students to learn how to interact in culturally diverse environments. It's important to consider the ages of the learners when choosing appropriate activities.
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Letter Swap
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In Letter Swap, learners read a passage or view a documentary, then write letters from the perspective of characters in that media. For example, learners can read excerpts from "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank, which tells the story of a girl forced into hiding during the Holocaust. Learners can then write short letters from Frank's perspective. Next, participants can swap letters and write responses.
The Newsroom Diversity Game
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In this online game, participants work to make a newsroom's staff more diverse. Educators can choose the level of difficulty for participants. Next, the online platform leads participants through a series of prompts to help them complete the task. In the process, participants uncover the pitfalls and complications that come along with diversifying a workforce. The Newsroom Diversity Game is hosted by the Maynard Institute for Journalism Education (MIJE), an organization that encourages diversity in journalism through training and other activities.
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Labels
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The game Labels helps participants uncover the benefits and harmfulness of labeling. First, the facilitator places various identity categories -- such as "Non-English Speaker," "Homeless Person," or "Person in Wheelchair" -- on participants' backs. Participants should not see the labels. The facilitator specifically instructs participants to act toward each other in ways that signify the category on the label. Finally, the facilitator leads a discussion about the labeling experience.
In and Out
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The game "In and Out" helps participants see the commonalities and differences they have with one another. First, the facilitator instructs participants to form a circle and listen as prompts are read. Next, participants move to the center of the circle when the prompt applies to them. Prompts can include statements such as, "I am an only child," "I grew up in a wealthy community," or "I have experienced learning challenges." To close, the facilitator leads a discussion about the experience.
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References
Resources
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