The Results Are In!

Annual evaluation of Prejudice Reduction Workshops demonstrates continued high quality.

Every summer we conduct a comprehensive review of the Prejudice Reduction Workshops (PRW) from the previous school year. Data is drawn chiefly from two sources: teacher evaluations completed after each session, and student surveys completed by a sample of students at four grade levels.

Student Assessments
The student assessment surveys measure results in three areas: 1) correctly answering knowledge questions about the workshop, 2) demonstrating at least two examples of empathy—valuing and respecting others’ unique experiences—in essay questions, and 3)  demonstrating at least two examples of critical thinking—how one’s behaviors impacts others—in essay questions. Research shows that these three areas—critical thinking, empathy, and knowledge—are key elements in reducing prejudice among children and youth. This year again, the Diversity Council met our target for student outcomes in these three areas.

Teacher Evaluations
Teacher evaluations completed after each workshop—well over 500 each year—provide a wealth of data on our program. This year’s evaluations reveal that the PRWs remain very successful, meeting or exceeding our target in nearly every area of evaluation, including teacher satisfaction with communication from the Diversity Council, curriculum cognitive level, facilitator skill, and activities meeting workshop objectives.

Although all of these results are very encouraging, the Diversity Council is committed to a process of continuous improvement so that our PRWs remain current and relevant in meeting the needs of students in Rochester and surrounding communities.  Student testing and teacher feedback help us pinpoint areas we can improve.

In next month’s E-News we will highlight some of the curriculum changes for the 2008-09 school year.  

1130 1/2 7th St NW, Suite 204 , Rochester, MN 55901 · Tel: 507.282.9951 · Fax: 507.282.9964 · info@diversitycouncil.org

Diversity...It's all about respect.