Effective teaching in multicultural settings requires the awareness and ability to adapt to diverse needs and viewpoints. Teachers' multicultural efficacy may be gained from coursework or interactions within diverse communities. In this study the authors determined preservice teachers' multicultural efficacy using the Multicultural Efficacy Scale (MES) and its relationship to education and personal characteristics. Study results revealed average levels of multicultural attitudes and efficacy and no relationship to coursework and personal characteristics. The authors did find a significant relationship to political worldviews. Results suggest that other variables may be making personal characteristics less influential on views of diversity.

Efforts that attend to the developmental needs of children, enhance their capacity to learn, and support their potential for becoming successful, have tremendous merit. Therefore, it is critical that steps are taken to evaluate the effectiveness of such endeavors. The purpose of this study was to create and validate a life skill outcomes instrument for use in extension youth programs. This instrument validation study utilized both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to establish the validity and reliability of a life skills instrument for nine to twelve year olds. The data collected from 111 participants suggests that the instrument is both valid and reliable for the intended age group. Study results, limitations, and ideas for future research are discussed.