Diversity management (DiM) is the strategic design and practical implementation of dealing with diversity and equal opportunities. Diversity management stands for the consideration and integration of the diversity of all people, as well as the promotion of the wealth of skills and potential that results from this diversity.
Diversity is the English word for variety. Diversity and heterogeneity are often used as equivalent terms.
Diversity management has its origins in business. The aim is to create instruments for the successful integration of the most diverse target groups. The focus here is on market orientation and the ability to innovate, which are to be achieved through the decision-making and management processes of heterogeneous teams.
Diversity management at a university is a strategic approach that entails a change in university culture, combining socio-political and higher education policy developments, strategic planning and sensible implementation. Innovation and excellence can only come about if heterogeneity is recognized and valued. With this in mind, various offers are designed for teaching, studies, research and personnel development.
A particular challenge for a university is the heterogeneity of its students. Therefore, shaping student diversity and ensuring equal opportunities has become a core task of university development.
The most important areas of diversity management at a university are
- Studies and teaching
- research
- staff development
- Accessibility (buildings and website)
Various aspects of diversity need to be taken into account. The General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) prohibits discrimination with regard to gender, ethnicity, age and disability as well as sexual orientation, religion and world views. The following diversity dimensions play the greatest role at a university: gender (or gender identity), ethnic origin (migration background), social background, disability and age.
Clausthal University of Technology sees the diversity and heterogeneity of its students and employees as an enrichment for the university, which represents great innovative potential. Clausthal University of Technology promotes this diversity and at the same time strengthens equal opportunities for all its members. Diversity aspects are included in all strategic decisions at TU Clausthal.
Diversity is the way!