MGMT304

In today's global economy, the face of the American worker is dramatically different than it was fifty years ago. The modern workforce is composed of numerous demographic groups that must find ways to bridge differences to accomplish work with and through others. Organizations are the context in which these diverse groups interact. Diversity has the potential to maximize an organization's performance and competitive advantage, but if mismanaged, it can create workgropup tensions, interpersonal conflict and productivity slowdowns. As such, it is essential that managers effectively manage the challenges and leverage the opportunities derived from workplace diversity. By identifying the differences and similarities among various demographic groups and examining the dynamics of interpersonal interactions, this course dissects the dynamics of diversity at work and the practices that enhance the functioning of the diverse organization. The course examines theories surrounding diveristy at work, group dynamics, organizational interventions to foster and manage diversity, as well as the environmental factors affecting diversity management such as the legal context and globalization.