Diversity in Small Group Communication
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Define personal, social, and cultural identities
- Describe identity development
- Describe how diversity can enhance decision-making and problem-solving
- Identify challenges and best practices for working with multicultural teams
- Discuss divergent cultural characteristics and list several examples of such characteristics in the culture(s) you identify with
Decision-making and problem-solving can be much more dynamic and successful when performed in a diverse team environment. The multiple diverse perspectives can enhance both the understanding of the problem and the quality of the solution. Yet, working in diverse teams can be challenging given different identities, cultures, beliefs, and experiences.
In this chapter, we will first focus on understanding cultural identity. Then, the discussion will move to the effects of team diversity on group decision-making and problem-solving, identification of best practices and challenges for working in and with multicultural teams, and understanding divergent cultural characteristics that teams may need to navigate.
VIDEO – How Diversity Makes Teams More Innovative
Media Attributions
- Diversity