Diversity Icebreaker: Theory & Practice
Diversity Icebreaker (DI) is an assessment tool for communication preferences and cooperation that challenges more classical tools used in training and developmental seminars. In particular, the use of the DI in seminars and training represents a stronger focus on involvement, language and collective reflection than in the case of these classical tools. DI was developed in 1998 and has, subsequently, been employed worldwide and developed in nineteen languages. As an assessment tool, DI has both theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, it highlights the complementary character of perspectives from psychology, sociology, and linguistics in managing diverse communication, interaction, and problem-solving scenarios. Practically, DI provides multiple benefits in a workshop setting, including increased self-understanding, communication training, creating a psychological safe climate for dialogue and learning, demonstrating social dynamics, managing diversity and collective reflection.
Bjørn Z Ekelund, Human Factors AS, Norway:
Trained as a psychologist at the University of Oslo, Norway (1983), Bjørn has been prime owner and managing director of Human Factors AS in Norway since 1993. Over the years, he has worked closely with academic and professional institutions in order to increase the practical relevance of academic knowledge. He has written five books and has authored several articles in peer reviewed journals in the field of psychology. He is active in the Academy of Management and has been a board member of the Executive Committee of the Management Consulting Division at the Academy.
To know more about Diversity Icebreaker: http://www.human-factors.no/diversity_icebreaker.aspx
To know more about Bjørn Z. Ekelund: http://www.human-factors.no/consultants/bjorn.aspx