The Impact of Global, Social Issue, and Diversity Courses on Students’ Critical Thinking

• In Event: College Student Experiences With Diversity

Abstract

To enhance students’ competence in the global market and to enrich their learning experiences, universities are increasing course offerings on global cultures. Few studies, however, have examined the unique impact of these global diversity courses on critical thinking, or their combined impact with domestic diversity courses. This study examines the latter – the impact of global, social issue, and diversity (GSD) courses on students’ critical thinking. Findings suggest significantly differential impacts of GSD courses on critical thinking between White and minority students. Preliminary discussions and suggestions for institutional policy are provided. In accordance with the conference theme, “to know is not enough”, this study highlights the continual examination of how the changing scope of diversity courses impact students’ critical thinking.

Authors

• Ji Zhou, University of Southern California

• Darnell G. Cole, University of Southern California

• Michelle Castellanos, University of Southern California

• Sable Manson, University of Southern California