University Students and Community Leaders: Awareness of Cross-Cultural Issues

Abstract

Studies of university outreach programs have reported on recruiting efforts, adult education, extension courses, etc. There appears to be no research on interaction of academic institutions and multi-ethnic communities, or of students' involvement in community affairs. This study investigated awareness of cross-cultural issues of students and community leaders. 119 students in a Southern California university, departments of Education, Pan-African Studies, Psychology, and Sociology and 19 local community leaders responded to a questionnaire asking about awareness of issues, perceived role of the university, and knowledge of leaders in each sector. Students identified fewer issues than community leaders; community leaders foresaw a larger role for the university. Neither group recognized leaders of the other. Possible responses by the university to identified concerns are considered.