Syllabus

Title
0575 Diversity in Teams
Instructors
Wogene Berhanu Mena, MA
Contact details
E-mail address: wogene.berhanu.mena@wu.ac.at Office: Building D2. 2.636
Type
PI
Weekly hours
2
Language of instruction
Englisch
Registration
10/31/25 to 11/03/25
Registration via LPIS
Notes to the course
Dates
Day Date Time Room
Wednesday 11/12/25 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM D2.0.342 Teacher Training Raum
Wednesday 11/19/25 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM D4.0.039
Wednesday 11/26/25 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM D4.0.039
Wednesday 12/03/25 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM D4.0.039
Wednesday 12/10/25 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM TC.4.12
Wednesday 12/17/25 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM D4.0.039
Contents

The course serves the individual and group-related experience learning on diversity and group dynamic processes in teams as well as the theoretical transfer of knowledge. The focus is on the connection between knowledge appropriation to group dynamic processes, diversity dimensions, minority and majority mechanisms as well as inclusion and exclusion processes. The course provides conceptual and theoretical frameworks for diversity management in organizations, helping to understand diversity in teams and relate it to real-life organizational cases. It provides a theoretical framework on understanding how various dimensions of diversity impact team effectiveness and performance. In addition, pros and cons of virtual teams in terms of team diversity will be discussed. 

The theoretical and conceptual discussions will be backed by students' individual and team reflections. For group reflections, the students are required to form their group. Both individual and group reflections is carried out in written form and oral presentations. On the last day, the final exam will take place covering selected topics from the subject area.

Learning outcomes

Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, students will be able:

  • To understand team and dimensions of diversityin organization; 

  • To explain how various dimensions of diversity influence team dynamics and outcomes; 

  • To analyze concrete and real-life organizational cases using theoretical frameworks; 

  • To understand conflict management and decision-making strategies in diverse teams. 

Attendance requirements

Examination-immanent courses (PI-LV), attendance is compulsory. If there is an important and legitimate reason , replacement work must be done from 2 hours of absence. In the case of cumulative absences of more than 4 hours, the course is judged "not sufficient" and must be repeated. Important reasons are, according to the examination regulations of the WU, any that are beyond the disposition of the student (illness, accident, death of a close relative). Vocational obligations are not considered an important reason in the sense of the examination regulations, since these are at the disposition of the students. 

Teaching/learning method(s)

Teaching-Learning methods

This course emphasizes the reflection on group dynamic processes, particularly concerning diversity in teams, and integrates individual and group-based experiential learning. Alongside this practical engagement and reflection, various case studies will be presented and analyzed through the application of relevant theoretical and conceptual frameworks. The course also includes lecture sessions designed to actively engage students.

Assessment

The course is immanent in the examination. The grading consists of three
criteria:

  • Individual reflection and participation (20%);
  • Teamwork:  Analysis and reflection on certain dimension of team diversity and presentation (40%); 
  • Examination on the topic (40%).  
Prerequisites for participation and waiting lists

Positive conclusion of SBWL Course I.

Readings

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Recommended previous knowledge and skills

Knowledge from the SBWL Course I

Availability of lecturer(s)

E-mail: wogene.berhanu.mena@wu.ac.at

Office: Building D2 2.636

Last edited: 2025-05-13



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