The United States is a nation rich in cultural diversity, experiencing variations in race, ethnicity, gender, ability, age, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, and more. For this diverse nation and for the children of this diverse nation to prosper, everyone must recognize and understand the nature of this diversity and the extent to which perceived differences may affect social behavior and interpersonal relationships. In Foundations of Diversity, students confront information, issues, theories, and beliefs that prove essential to their understanding and an ability to relate to people of diverse cultures. The course places special emphasis on the role of the school as a socializing agent and on the responsibility of professionals who influence the lives of children and can affect social adaptation and change. This course includes field study.