Examines issues of diversity and literacy education in terms of "non-negotiable difference." Argues that networked classrooms provide writing instructors with unique extra-linguistic cues (body language) that can help teachers and students become more responsive to racial difference. Discusses three African-American students' experiences…

Maintains that a high level of teacher-student communication is especially important in courses on race and ethnic relations. Describes the use of oral history and interviews in a college sociology course. Discusses interviewing methods, reporting results of the interviews, and the impact of the course on students. (CFR)