A/ ASSIGNMENT RECAP

• Analyze discrimination/bias against marginalized groups (women, LGBTQ+, minorities, disabled, impoverished) in a real organization (large/small, non-profit/for-profit). 

• In a 10-minute group presentation:

  • Problem: Describe how discrimination manifests with a focus on explaining how it takes place. Provide evidence.

  • Solution: Propose 2 practical solutions to address the problem using course concepts. 

  • Use 4 course concepts to support analysis and solutions.

  • Include 500-700 word detailed footnotes explaining key ideas.

Suggested Structure:

1.  Introduction 

1. Title of the presentation

2. Names of group members

3. A brief overview of the organization chosen

4. Objectives of the Presentation

2.  Body

1. Raising the Problem

5. Explain the Problem

6. Calling for Help

7. Identifying Root Causes

8. Code of Conduct Gaps

2. Raising the Solution

9. Proposing Solutions

10->14. Detailed Solution 1

15->19. Detailed Solution 2

B/ KEYWORD EXPLANATIONS

Essential keywords relating to Organisations

• Course concepts  that you have learned during Week 6 – Week 11

1. Reflexivity - The practice of critical self-examination to understand how personal experiences shape perspectives and actions. Example: Reflecting on how family background influenced work preferences.

2. Tacit Knowledge - Knowledge gained from direct experience that is difficult to articulate. Example: A craftsperson's expertise developed over years of practice.

3. Explicit Knowledge - Knowledge that is codified and transmittable through language and symbols. Example: A chemistry textbook explanation of molecular structures.

4. Thought Diversity - Variations in thinking patterns and perspectives, often driven by different cultures and experiences. Example: Innovative strategies incorporating international and marginalized viewpoints.

5. Psychological Economies - Shared mindsets and assumptions that enable quick sensemaking but limit divergent thinking. Example: Organizational culture norms.

6. Six Thinking Hats - Using six metaphorical hats to approach problems from emotional, positive, negative, creative, and critical angles.

7. Groupthink - A tendency for group consensus and desire for harmony to override rational decision-making and appraisal of alternatives.

8. Learning Organization - An organization skilled at knowledge creation, acquisition, transfer, with culture open to learning and critical reflection.

9. Explicit Knowledge - Knowledge that can be codified and transmitted in formal systematic language.

10. Tacit Knowledge - Personal, experience-based knowledge that is more difficult to formally articulate and communicate.

11. Knowledge and Ignorance - Recognizing that gaps in knowledge (ignorance) can provide opportunities for learning and growth.

12. Epistemic Vices - Prejudices or thinking flaws that can lead to poor judgment, like groupthink and arrogance.

  D/ DETAILED OUTLINE 

1.  Selecting case study and researching

Step 1: Find Case

Tips: 

• Where to find the organizations and its issues:

• Online News Outlets: Use search engines like Google to find news articles about the company. Keywords like "[Company Name] diversity issues" or "[Company Name] discrimination cases" can be useful.

• Social Media: Check the company’s social media profiles for any public discussions or campaigns related to diversity. Also, look at public sentiment in comments or posts.

• Cross-Reference Information: Cross-check facts from multiple sources to confirm accuracy.

• Some pro-tip to find interesting cases

  • Brainstorm a novel angle then research related cases using keyword searches on credible sites.

For example:

• Discrimination in hiring on the basis of sex, race and national origin at FedEx

• Discrimination towards the disabled: Walmart’s Case

• Racial bias: The Coca-Cola Company Racial Discrimination

• Gender bias in construction: Green JobWorks LLC’s case

• Harassment of LGBTQ+: University of Florida v. Raymond Rodrigues