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Module 11: The Colorblind Perspective
What is the colorblind perspective and is this the best approach
for teachers of diverse learners?
Compare and contrast the multicultural perspective and the colorblind perspective
Explore issues surrounding race and bias
Discuss hidden biases and explore them through the lens of the "race test"
Color-Blind Perspective
The color -blind perspective proposes that ethnic categories should be minimized so that all people can be viewed and treated as individuals. It is often difficult to implement this approach because social categorization is a fundamental aspect of social perception that cannot easily be eliminated (Hewstone, Rubin & Willis, 2002).
In addition, the color- blind perspective may inadvertently impose on everyone the values, traits, or behaviors of the majority group. Moreover, those against the "colorblind" approach argue that to claim one is colorblind denies the person of their individuality and unique identity. The video above is a clip from the film "Angry Eye" which counters the colorblind perspective and highlights the importance of acknowledging race, ethnicity and unique backgrounds.
The multicultural perspective is based on the idea that ethnic differences should be acknowledged and celebrated. Individuals are encouraged to understand and embrace differences between ethnic groups. This approach may reduce prejudices toward ethnic minorities, while at the same time foster an appreciation of the unique values and characteristics of each ethnic group.
Multicultural Perspective
The multicultural perspective is based on the idea that ethnic differences should be acknowledged and celebrated. Individuals are encouraged to understand and embrace differences between ethnic groups. This approach may reduce prejudices toward ethnic minorities, while at the same time foster an appreciation of the unique values and characteristics of each ethnic group.
1. View the video clip: The Angry Eye (shown above in introduction). Consider the following questions:
What are your thoughts about this experiment?
What is the purpose behind this experiment?
What does this study imply about the "colorblind" perspective?
2. Read Article: Colorblind Perspective and consider these questions:
What does this article say about Colorblindness?
Is it a good thing? Do you agree? Why or why not?
3. Start thinking about your Diverse Group Project (due in module 14):
For this assignment, think about all the diverse groups of students you will teach and all the varied backgrounds from which they will come (cultural, learning ability or disability, physical ability or disability, learning styles, psychological differences, home situations, socio-economic backgrounds, etc).
Select one group of potential student groups you will one day teach. Following the template, conduct research on this group and create your presentation. Be sure to follow the template as a guideline. You will include a cover or background slide or two with overview of this group. Then discuss language/space/time, barriers, etc.
See below: Important, DO NOT CHOOSE THE STUDENT SAMPLE TOPIC LISTED - DYSLEXIA.
YOU MUST CHOOSE STUDENT GROUPS OTHER THAN THE SAMPLE LISTED:
Dyslexia
4. Go to IAT site and take a rapid response test for either: Disability, Gender/Science, Native American, Skin Tone OR Race
Once you've read the intro page, click on the link that says "I wish to proceed"
This will take you to a menu of options. Choose one of these:
Gender/Science
Native American
Skin Tone
Race
Read the instructions
Review and record your results for the test
What did you learn about the results relative to bias?
Did you find anything surprising?
Did you agree with the results? Why or why not?
For a little background on the IAT design: Check out this You tube video explaining the IAT test
Whatʻs Due this Module:
Forum Discussion Quiz 11
In this module we looked at the idea of "colorblindness" and contrasted this notion to a multicultural perspective. You viewed several video clips regarding a study on diversity, created by Jane Elliot. These experiments were intriguing and thought provoking. However it really is not about black or white, or brown eyes vs. blue eyes. The significance of these experiments and the topics explored this week is the acknowledgement and embracing of diversity. To take it a step further, we have to think about this in terms of education and what this will look like in your future classrooms. Will you take the "colorblind" approach, or will you take the multicultural approach? Is it fair to say "we donʻt see color"? Or should we acknowledge and embrace all differences and similarities in our classroom?
Leeward CC - Online Learning Resources
Leeward CC- Writing Center
Leeward CC- Learning Resource Center
Approaches to Multicultural Curriculum Reform
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