"Having a diversity of cultures within a single country can be a threat, a problem, or an asset." The contributors to this book argue that cultural pluralism rather than cultural homogeneity must be recognized and accepted within our educational institutions--not as a necessary evil, but as a strong positive force. For different does not mean inferior or superior, and sameness is not necessarily advantageous. This constitutes the message of the various contributors who, in themselves, constitute a small nation of diversity and harmony. Black Americans, Puerto Ricans, Chicanos, American Indians, Asian Americans, and others present forthright views and realistic proposals which mark the beginning of educational changes long overdue. These studies pragmatically discuss such topics as ethnic studies, bilingual education, and the development of teaching materials for cultural pluralism. They urge schools and communities to emphasize cultural diversity rather than the melting pot concept so that children of all cultural and ethnic backgrounds will take pride in their individuality. (Author)