Discussion 1

Workplace Diversity: Gender and Sexual Orientation

Our text describes many different dimensions of diversity. This the reading focuses on sexual harassment, issues related to gender, and issues related to sexual orientation. Select one of these topic areas and summarize an experience you (or someone you know) has experienced with one of these dimensions of diversity. How did the leadership of the organizational unit respond? Evaluate your experience in light of this week's readings. Respond to at least two of your classmates' postings.

Discussion 2

Managing Differences

The globalization of business has brought a wealth of styles, cultures, and languages to the workplace, as well as an increase in workplace conflicts and misunderstandings. What is your leadership strategy for managing people who believe strategically differently from you? How would your strategy change if: (a) to win is everything; (b) No one should "lose face;" (c) Consensus is the only way to reach agreement; (d) Being emotional in a negotiating session is good; or (e) it is not important to know facts or details. Address both ethical and competitive advantage justifications for your position. Respond to at least two of your classmates' postings.

This assignment is worth 3 points of the total course grade.

Written Assignment

Evaluation: Socio-Cultural Landscape

Select a specific socio-cultural group that we have reviewed in this class. Consider and articulate their understanding of gender and sexual orientation. Then, select a specific law or administrative regulation that is practiced as an organizational strategy and which relates to gender, sexual identity or sexual orientation. Write a 4-5 page double-spaced paper that evaluates this practice and the ways in which it may be interpreted through the lens of the selected socio-cultural group. Be sure to evaluate if the practice is inclusive, discriminatory or non-discriminatory, and why. Be sure to analyze the employee and the employer rights and responsibilities in your explanation.

Journal

Student Learning Journal

After you have read the assignments and viewed the videos, you should reflect on your own experience of gender identity in the workplace. You should honestly assess your preference for working for someone of the opposite gender. Do you think that gender has played a role in the success of your relationships with superiors? With subordinates?