Theorizing vs Doing

After reading this week’s first article, “Racial Diversity Matters: The Impact of Diversity-related Student Engagement and Institutional Context,” I became frustrated. Perhaps it is that I majored in sociology and psychology as an undergrad, leaving me completely “over-theorized,” but I am done with studies that (to me) attempt to prove an obvious hypothesis. It is 2011; of COURSE diversity has positive effects on a college campus, isn’t that common sense by now? I am much more interested in studies that tell me specifically what to DO to achieve those positive effects. (As a personal side note, I feel that this reflects a significant change that I have undergone since graduation. I spent four years theorizing, and now I have molded into a “doer,” ready to make tangible contributions within my chosen profession.)

            To be fair, I do see the legal reasoning for an article of this nature as it relates to the elimination of race-conscious admissions. Although, as a future higher-education professional, I am interested in what I can do as an individual, how I can enrich students’ experiences with hands-on knowledge.

            Given this mindset, I was hopeful upon beginning our second article, “Enhancing Campus Climates for Racial/Ethnic Diversity: Educational Policy and Practice.” I was especially intrigued when I read the following, “What is needed are vehicles that translate higher education research into thoughtful policies incorporating the goal of educating diverse students.” I was pleased to find this article was overflowing with advice to institutional leaders on working to create a diverse campus environment that is beneficial to all. Tips on both the psychological and behavioral level were addressed, such as implementing formal mentoring programs, creating peer groups, and fostering cross-racial interaction that is structured, regular, on-going, and held in an a non-competitive environment. These, along with the many others provided, give higher education professionals clear-cut steps for making a difference today. I believe articles, such as this, work to actively create much needed, immediate changes within the university.