Approaches to Integrating Multicultural Perspectives in PNU-Mindanao: Basis for Multicultural Education Program

Abstract

Issues of diversity continue to challenge higher education institutions. This study aimed to explore the different approaches to integrating multicultural perspectives in Philippine Normal University-Mindanao, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, Philippines. This study was a descriptive research using qualitative methods. Through document analysis, interview, observation, and focus group discussions, results revealed that one thing the school failed to do was to keep an updated ethnicity profile of its 1,224 students, and 66 faculty and staff. The dominant ethnic group is not well represented in the student government and student organizations. Multicultural issues are not introduced early in the teacher education program. Infusion of multicultural concepts in the syllabus is evident, but the extent of this inclusion is limited only to meet the felt needs of the mainstream and the marginalized students of the institution without identifying who the mainstream and the marginalized students are.. Based on these findings, the researcher proposed an Integrated Multicultural Education Program for PNU-Mindanao. It has six components: Formation Program, Curriculum Development, Hiring of Indigenous Faculty, Organizing Indigenous Student Communities, Co-Curricular Activities and Student Teaching Placement Program.