Managing Cultural Complexity

Module Synopsis

This module explores issues of diversity within management in a globalised society. The module considers organisational diversity and the ways in which organizations are managed according to their constituents.

Learning outcomes
  • Understand cultural complexities within the global setting
  • Critique theories of diversity
  • Analyse and evaluate diversity policies within organisational settings
  • Explore and analyse the social, legal and ethical issues associated with diversity in organisations
  • Describe benefit and deficit models of diversity within organisations
  • Develop strategies for inclusive management drawing on understandings of diversity
  • Develop strategies for identifying and combating discrimination
  • Evaluate personal responses to diversity in the workplace

Content areas
  • "Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?" Historical and contemporary understandings of globalism and diversity
  • Understandings of diversity within organisational settings, including Aboriginality, age/sex/gender, cultural/racial/ethnic, GLBTQ, disability/ability, religious
  • Feminism and diversity
  • Diverse communities speaking for themselves - inclusion, exclusion, agency, resistance and action
  • Political, social, ethical and economic considerations of diversity within management
  • Communicating diversity
  • Diversity in leadership: cultural, social and symbolic implications; examination of Australian governments' policy and practice - affirmative action, equal opportunity, EAPS
  • Applying and analysing diversity within a management model - benefits and deficits
  • Globalisation, politics, symbols of diversity and media representations
  • Responsibilities and dilemmas of management: diverse populations and inclusive leadership
  • Developing management skills in diverse situations - lessons from terrorism
  • The future of diversity in management

Textbook and Readings
There is no set text for this module. Your readings are an integral part of your study.

Module Duration and Workload:
This module involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery or self-directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 120 hours of self-study per module including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates as 13 hours per week for the module.

Study method:
On Campus, Distance Education and Online Education
The studies, combined with my previous work experience, have led me into a more satisfying role in an industry I know well. My studies have given me the confidence to manage a role where top notch "soft skills" are essential.
Pip Pearson
Graduate Diploma of Counselling