SSC 285 Dynamics of a Diverse Wrkplace

Lecture Hours: 1
Credits: 1

Focuses on building diversity knowledge, intercultural experiences, and preparing for career entry in an increasingly diverse workplace. Introduces a broadly defined conceptualization of diversity, the vocabulary of difference, and fundamental core concepts associated with intercultural competency. Examines demographic trends, our changing communities, and employer expectations for intercultural competency.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 115 (or higher), or completion of WR 090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain the social construct of diversity and its fundamental concepts.
Describe demographic trends and the increasingly diverse workplace.
Discuss the dynamics of diversity in the workplace.
Describe strategies for building diversity knowledge and intercultural experiences.
Discuss diversity in the context of the employment application and interview process.

Statewide General Education Outcomes:

Apply analytical skills to social phenomena in order to understand human behavior.
Apply knowledge and experience to foster personal growth and better appreciate the diverse social world in which we live.

Cultural Literacy Outcomes:

Identify and analyze complex practices, values, and beliefs and the culturally and historically defined meanings of difference.

Content Outline

Introduction to Diversity in the Workplace
- U.S. demographic data and trends
- Workplace expectations of cultural competency
Dimensions of Diversity
- Definitions of diversity
- Diversity typologies
Vocabulary of Power and Difference
- The power of words
- Values and beliefs embedded in vocabulary
- Developing shared meaning
Understanding Difference
- How we learn about difference
- Generalizations and stereotypes
Fundamental Concepts of Diversity
- Assumptions and bias
- Marginality and inclusion
- Privilege
Building Diversity Knowledge and Experiences
- Learning about others
- Specific information on selected diversity groups
Preparing for Career Entry
- Demonstrating diversity knowledge and cultural competency
- Diversity questions for employment interviews and oral boards