The international minor Diversity in Urban Education is an interdisciplinary program offered by the Faculty of Education. The concept of education is broadly interpreted, encompassing fields such as social work, pedagogy, teaching, and related disciplines (see details below).

Amsterdam is one of the world’s most diverse cities and is characterized by strong segregation in cultures, living environments, schools, and socio-economic conditions. The Netherlands has a long history and rich tradition of trade, tourism, and multiculturalism, which continues to raise questions about how to engage with and work within a diverse society.

This minor program provides students with knowledge, skills, and insights into the practices and theories surrounding diversity (cultural, social, and economic) - a topic of major importance in social education and teaching. The program focuses on the role of professional social educators, social workers, pedagogues, and teachers, addressing questions such as:

• How can professionals effectively work with diversity in daycare centers, schools, parental advisory services, youth and community work, or other social settings?
• How can they communicate effectively?
• How can they support empowerment?
• How can they create inclusive environments?

An applied research project runs throughout the minor, with students working in groups on projects in the Amsterdam area. Theoretical courses and training sessions provide the necessary support for the research.

The minor aims to provide students with knowledge, skills, and insights into the practices and theories of how professionals address diversity in social educational settings (e.g., childcare institutions, schools, youth work, social services, community centers) within an urban context, primarily Amsterdam.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this minor, students will be able to:

• Explain and apply central theories on inclusion, multicultural sensitivity, and ethics.
• Conduct applied research in an urban context using multi- and interdisciplinary perspectives.
• Collaborate in diverse groups to work on problem-based projects.
• Explain factors that influence inclusion or exclusion.
• Develop products that contribute to inclusive practices.
• Critically reflect on their attitudes toward cultural bias and professionalism in education and create alternatives.
• Communicate effectively in complex social situations.

Competences

In alignment with the Dublin Descriptors, particularly:

• DD3: Making judgement
• DD4: Communication skills

In accordance with HBO (Higher Professional Education) standards.

The target group consists of third- or fourth-year BA students in social education, pedagogy, teaching, early childhood care, youth work, community work, and related fields who wish to broaden their experience and knowledge of diversity and inclusion in an urban environment while studying in an international context. Applicants should have an English proficiency level of at least B2 on the CEFR scale.

Mandatory:

Banks, Sarah & Kirsten Nøhr (Eds.) (2012). Practising Social Work Ethics Around the World. London: Routledge.

Optional:

Nunez, C. et al. (2014). Intercultural Sensitivity: From Denial to Intercultural Competence. Assen: Royal Van Gorcum.

Supplementary literature will be introduced during the modules. Research groups are expected to independently search for literature relevant to their projects.

Classes are scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays throughout the semester (subject to change).

Work forms / Contact hours / Self study (individual and group work) / Total

Lectures, workshops, group work, presentations, peer feedback, formative feedback, coaching / 260 / 580 / 840

Module / ECTS / Assessment  / Assessment period / Resits

Applied Research Project / 10 / Oral and Written / January 2027 / January 2027
Inclusion, Multicultural Sensitivity and Ethical Dilemmas / 15 / Oral and Written / January 2027 / January 2027 Culture and language / 5 / Oral and Written / October/November 2026 - January 2027 / January 2027

Total / 30

Resits are scheduled during semester.

Costs: Study materials and books, along with some (transportation) expenses for excursions and interactions with organizations in Amsterdam.

Questions about the minor?
Contact: Sara El Abbassi via s.el.abbassi@hva.nl

Questions about the Kies op Maat procedure?Contact: Lia Stip via minoren-foo@hva.nl

Aanmeldingen worden op volgorde van binnenkomst ondertekende leerovereenkomsten in behandeling genomen.