Course Catalog >> Workplace Effectiveness
Building Bridges: Understanding Diversity Issues in the Workplace
Course # 115
Advertising Description:
This is an educational program for University of Iowa employees interested in developing themselves professionally and personally by becoming more aware of the issues involved in a culturally diverse workforce. Topics discussed include defining "cultural diversity," identifying and valuing cultural values in the workplace, addressing stereotypes and prejudice, and reviewing practical skills for working and communicating effectively cross-culturally.
Key Topics:
- Define diversity, emphasizing that each of us brings “difference” to the work environment based on our primary dimensions of diversity (age, gender, race, ability, sexual identity, class, religion, ethnicity) and our secondary dimensions of diversity (geography, family status, income level, educational background, job classification, etc).
- Explore common “diversity” situations in which conflicts can occur because of employees’ diversity.
- Develop skills to work effectively in an inclusive environment.
- Acknowledge the changing workforce demographics which signal an increasingly diverse U.S. force.
Objectives:
- To heighten participants’ understanding regarding their primary and secondary dimensions of diversity.
- Identify skills to deal effectively across difference in a work environment.
- To become aware of legal rights and responsibilities and on campus diversity resources.
Participants (audience course is aimed at):
This course is suitable for any UI employee.