Outline

Overview

This unit examines the ways in which organisations manage a heterogeneous workforce and the legal and ethical issues associated with the management of workforce diversity. While drawing on international literature in the field, the primary focus is on the Australian experience, including the so-called 'program' approach and the complaint mechanism found in the anti-discrimination statutes. As well as encouraging the development of diagnostic and prescriptive skills in diversity management, students also have the opportunity to develop a critical perspective on the growing literature in this field.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Work and Organisational Studies
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Natalie Galea, natalie.galea@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final Written Exam 2 hour closed book exam	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Group presentation In-person group presentation, accompanied by submission of PowerPoint slides and a two-page handout. The handout must clearly identify the key issue your group is addressing and reference relevant academic literature, course readings, and course content.	30%	Formal exam period	10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Critical Reflection Task This task involves responding to a short written reflection question that encourages deeper engagement with course concepts. Questions will relate to key concepts, readings, and videos, and will be posted on Canvas.	10%	Week 05	Two written submissions: 300 words each	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Critical Reflection Task 2 This task involves responding to a short written reflection question that encourages deeper engagement with course concepts. Questions will relate to key concepts, readings, and videos, and will be posted on Canvas.	10%	Week 12	Two written submissions: 300 words each	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	Unit Engagement: Tutorial preparation, attendance and contribution Assesses preparation, attendance, and contribution in tutorials. Students are expected to complete weekly preparation tasks, engage with lecture content in advance, participate actively and constructively in discussions using relevant concepts & readings.	10%	Weekly	n/a	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Unit Engagement - Tutorial preparation, attendance and contribution: Learning to be a more effective communicator involves applying knowledge, practicing skills and developing new strategies, which cannot take place if students watch from the sidelines. Assesses preparation, attendance, and contribution in tutorials. Students are expected to complete weekly preparation tasks, engage with lecture content in advance, participate actively and constructively in discussions using relevant concepts & readings. Student participation marked by the instructor.

Final exam: This exam will include multiple choice, short answer, and essay questions. It assesses your understanding of key topics as well as your ability to think critically and reflect on the material. Exam questions may draw on any weekly topics, activities, or readings. The exam will be held on campus under supervision. Further details about the exam format and delivery will be provided closer to the date.

Group Presentation: This group task requires you to develop a presentation on a key diversity and inclusion issue in the workplace. Your presentation should be tailored to a specific organisation and clearly explain the issue, why it matters, and how it can be addressed. Each group will submit PowerPoint slides and a two-page referenced handout via Canvas, and deliver a 10 minute oral presentation in Week 11.

Critical Reflection Task: This task involves responding to four short (300 word) written reflection question that encourages deeper thinking about the weekly lecture themes. Questions will relate to key concepts, readings, and videos, and will be posted on Canvas. Reflections are submitted via Canvas in Week 5 and Week 12.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an exceptional standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Distinction	75 - 84	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Credit	65 - 74	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Pass	50 - 64	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

(a) any assessment submitted after the due time and date, or extended due time and date, will incur a late penalty of 5% of the total marks per 24 hour period, or part thereof, late. (b) assessments submitted after the 'Closing Date' noted in the Unit of Study Outline will not be marked or assessed.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introduction to Diversity & Inclusion (D&I)	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 01	Introduction to the unit and to the tutorial group	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 02	History and origins of diversity and inclusion at work	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 02	History and origins of diversity and inclusion at work	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 03	Rethinking the structure of work	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 03	Rethinking the structure of work	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 04	Work and organisations: How gender shapes the workplace.	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 04	Work and organisations: How gender shapes the workplace.	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 05	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 05	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 06	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 06	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 07	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 07	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 08	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 08	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 09	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 09	Dimensions of diversity and inclusion	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 10	Understanding resistance to diversity and inclusion	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 10	Understanding resistance to diversity and inclusion	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 11	Does diversity and inclusion have a future?	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 11	Group Presentation	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 12	Course conclusion and final assessment information.	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 12	Does diversity and inclusion have a future?	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 13	Reading week	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 13	Reading week	Tutorial (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Lecture attendance: One-hour face-to-face session which will provide theoretical information. Lecture attendance is not mandatory but is essential for successful completion of the course.

Lecture recordings: All lectures are recorded and will be available on Canvas for student use. Please note that the Business School does not own the system and cannot guarantee that the system will operate or that every class will be recorded. Under University policy, students are expected attend and participate in classes.

Tutorial attendance and unit engagement: One weekly two-hour tutorial that commences in Week 1. Note that there is a minimum attendance threshold of 10/12 tutorials to qualify for a mark for unit participation.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Please refer to the Canvas Reading List.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. demonstrate mastery of key D and I theories and concepts addressed in the course, and the ability to draw on examples to illustrate business knowledge in D and I
LO2. demonstrate mastery of relevant knowledge and ability to question existing conventional wisdom and practice, and apply relevant theories, concepts, and examples in insightful ways to substantiate claims, and also demonstrate the ability to evaluate the D and I space - by questioning, assessing, and responding independently and creatively to assumptions, propositions, and debates within D and I practice
LO3. apply a range of quantitative and qualitative research skills to identify and diagnose complex and unfamiliar problems surrounding D and I, and use evidence and findings generated, to formulate strategically appropriate solutions/analyses to core debates in D and I, and also synthesise major arguments and perspectives, substantiate claims by providing appropriate breadth and depth of examples/evidence, and reference material (primary and secondary source material), and propose and justify appropriate response to questions/problems
LO4. develop a persuasive argument/negotiation/outcome through a written and verbal communication strategy, and communicate solutions appropriately, based on audience, and to a professional standard
LO5. debate, discuss, and solve problems by working in teams: that is, display capable team leadership skills and team collaboration skills
LO6. consider and deliver on ethical and social justice issues underscoring D and I debates and solutions.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

WORK6115: Managing Diversity and Inclusion at Work

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal evening] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links