ABSTRACT
Action learning methods have been used successfully in teaching French and nursing within university classrooms. However, there is a paucity of literature describing the use of these techniques in social science courses focusing on cultural diversity. As with psychodrama, it was important for participants to tell their own stories and experiences. Many class activities were based on a semistructured, uncensored format in which spontaneity was encouraged. Action learning techniques were used effectively to facilitate students’ personal exploration in a university race relations course. The class format was semistructured, and spontaneity of expression was stressed. Improving racial relations is critical in advancing cultural understanding in an increasingly diverse world. Participants reported that the action learning techniques employed in the course were very effective in bringing about lifelong, positive changes in their attitudes, beliefs, and actions regarding members of other races.
