Week 1

• Explain why an understanding of diversity is important for the human service worker.
• Explain the importance of understanding differences.
• Identify uses of language and the connection to cultural competence.
• Explain the concept of White privilege.
• Describe how the institutionalized “isms” affect opportunity for diverse groups.

Week 2

• Describe how to apply Cultural Identity Development models.
• Summarize how discrimination affects both physical and mental health.
• Explain ways to minimize the negative ramifications of bias in service delivery.
• Identify what diversity skills are and how they promote cultural competence.

Week 3

• Explain the effect of historical trauma on individuals, families, and cultures within society.
• Identify the complex factors involved in overcoming generational poverty.
• Explain challenges the aged face when there is a lack of access to employment.
• Outline the unique challenges that women face through different life stages.
• Describe important factors for working with the special populations of Native Americans and Asian Americans.

Week 4

• Describe important factors to consider when working with the special populations of African American, Latino(a), Arab and Muslim American, and White ethnic clients.
• Describe important factors to consider when working with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.
• Explain how standard educational practices may not meet the needs of the differently abled.

Week 5

• Explain how to stop invidious comparison.
• Describe strength-based approaches that empower clients.
• Compare interventions that combine both Western healing and traditional indigenous healing approaches.
• Identify strategies for avoiding vicarious traumatization.