1) The document discusses how a course on diversity impacted the author's perspective on how diversity affects child and adolescent development. 2) The author realized they had pre-existing biases that the course helped them recognize, and it provided guidance to create a respectful learning environment. 3) The course broadened the author's view of how socioeconomic status in particular can significantly impact a child's life and academic success.

1. Response 1
Discussion 1, Week 11: What Diversity Means to You
Studied was the impact of diversity on childhood/adolescent
development and learning. A topic complexed in nature,
diversity began with the awareness of our own biases and
perspectives (formulated through personal experience) but has
hopefully ended with clarity and a better understanding vision
of self and others. Considered for this discussion was my
current perspectives regarding the impact of various
characteristics of diversity on child and adolescent
development. An explanation of such changes in perspectives
regarding the effect of diversity in child and adolescent
development follows.
Change in Perspective
Reflective of my initial post, this course has served to broaden
my perspectives on diversity as my own personal family
experiences positively modelled and formulated my thoughts.
Diversity plays an integral role in my profession, impacting
upon my interactions with children and adolescents daily. The
course itself has provided me with additional support in the
reinforcing of my commitment to educate all children with the
understanding and consideration necessary for addressing their
educational needs. Derman-Sparks and Olsen Edwards (2010)
assisted in providing practical guidance in their addressing of
the elimination of barriers regarding prejudices,
misinformation, and biases. The authors’ suggestions for
educational staff members will assist in the creation of a
respectful learning and living environment demonstrating of
understanding and the celebration of the positive aspects of

2. humanity.
References
Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010).
Anti-bias education for young children and
ourselves
. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of
Young Children.
Response 2
I believe that this course has changed my perspective on how
diversity effects child and adolescent development learning. I
have learned so much, I feel like I have a better understanding
of just how much diversity can truly affect one’s development
and academic success. Socioeconomic has opened my eyes on
how it has a significant effect not only one’s life but a child’s
as well. The major difference there is between low and high
socioeconomic status especially when it comes to academics.
Their development can be affected by where they live, school,
community, and parents.
Because of this course, it has made me open my eyes to my own
biases. It has changed my thought on a lot of things and has
made my perspectives on diversity completely change.
Especially when working with children and that everyone is
different in so many ways. By understanding them can help me
to accommodate their own personal needs.