NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Back to results
ERIC Number: ED456197
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2001
Pages: 33
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Diversity and Legal Education: Student Experiences in Leading Law Schools.
Orfield, Gary; Whitla, Dean
This study examined how diversity influenced law students' educational experiences. Predominantly White students at Harvard Law School and the University of Michigan Law School, as well as at five other law schools, completed surveys that examined such topics as: frequency of contact with diverse people growing up and in high school, college, and law school; close friends of other racial/ethnic backgrounds; studying with people of different races/ethnicities; the impact of diversity on ability to work more effectively, get along better, and discuss topics with people of other races; the positive or negative impact of diversity; conflicts because of racial diversity; changes in attitudes and values due to exposure to diversity; and necessary changes in law school admissions policies. Students reported a wide range of experiences and views on racial and civil rights issues, though most reported powerful educational experiences from their interaction with students of other races. White students had particularly enriching experiences. One of the strongest impacts of diversity was change in students' values concerning civil rights. Some students believed the experience could be improved, particularly with more significant efforts to deal with social segregation issues. The most negative responses overall were from foreign students. (Contains 22 tables and 24 endnotes.) (SM)
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A