The student bodies of most U.S.
law schools are more heterogeneous than ever. New law professors face the
daunting challenge of figuring out how to engage students who vary along a
number of critical axes. Law students come from diverse racial, ethnic,
national, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds, and, of course, differ in
gender and sexual orientation. Students also vary widely in their interests
regarding the area of law they wish to focus on (e.g., civil v. criminal), the
type of lawyer they wish to become (e.g., litigator v. transactional attorney),
and their ultimate career goals. Finally, students vary significantly in their
aptitudes for critical thinking, reading comprehension, attention to detail,
and interpersonal communication. This panel will explore strategies for
creating a classroom experience that effectively engages and supports students
of markedly diverse backgrounds, interests, and strengths.
Business meeting at program conclusion.