A mass communication instructor recently has begun a series of focus groups to discuss diversity issues at the University and will hold two more sessions this week.
Professor Lori Boyer said she started the focus groups last semester to see how students thought diversity and minority issues were being addressed in classes.
“I wanted to find out what minority students thought,” Boyer said. “Do they feel as if they are called on to speak for their race in class? Do they think diversity is talked about enough in classes?”
While the focus groups still are taking place, Boyer said so far students have had various responses to her questions about how well the University communicates on the topic of diversity.
“It was a mixed reaction,” Boyer said. “Some classes seem to be handling diversity issues, and some really aren’t.”
Boyer has continued the focus groups this semester with the same goal of getting students to discuss diversity issues. So far, about 12 students have participated in the discussions, but she encourages more students to become involved.
“I’m really interested in getting a cross-section of people,” Boyer said. “I’ve been targeting undergraduate students, but graduate students are also welcome to attend.”
Focus group discussions this week are scheduled for Monday and Wednesday from 10:40 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Room 233 Hodges Hall. Interested students can contact Boyer at [email protected] or 578-3488.
Students who have participated in the focus groups said diversity is an issue that should be more widely discussed.
“Discussions like the one that was held in the focus group are definitely something that all students should experience,” said Derrick Rogers, a mass communication senior. “People have to get away from the fear of discussing diversity or race issues.”
Melody Robinson, a business administration senior, said she thought the focus groups were a good opportunity to voice her opinion about diversity.
“As a senior, I want to let as many people know how I feel about the University as possible, and diversity is one of the issues I feel strongly about,” Robinson said.
Robinson said she thought the focus groups are a good way for students to let their feelings about diversity be known.
“I think any discussion is great because this is when most people are honest,” she said. “Conversation is spontaneous and true feelings can come out.”
Boyer said while the discussions are a step in the right direction, there is still more that can be done.
“It is my goal that we will actually do something,” Boyer said. “I’m not sure what yet, but once I get more ideas from people, I want to turn those into action.”