The Multicultural University

Abstract

The idea of a multicultural university can be analysed in terms of three basic types. The first, and the most difficult, is that of a university that attempts to integrate the various cultures that exist within a given country. The second and more usual type is a university that is receptive to cultures from foreign countries. A third type of multicultural university should be distinguished, one in which the various cultures of different social groups are in dialogue, including the social cultures that characterize different degrees of economic, social, and political development. The argument in favour of a multicultural university environment will be drawn from theory and from the traditions of specific universities. Practical examples derived from the experience of a famous Belgian university will be cited to illustrate various possibilities.