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KSU Extension: Diversity Training for Kentucky Extension Professionals
Diversity Wheel
This activity will allow participants to explore the dimensions of diversity that they bring to the work
setting and to better understand how these differences can be either strengths or barriers (or both) in
relationships with colleagues.
If you need to, review definition of diversity (slide 8) again.
Go over the dimensions of the wheel (use Diversity Wheel poster). Provide examples of each
dimension and use key points below.
Key Points of Diversity Wheel Dimensions
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Personality is at the center of the wheel. Consider an individual’s temperament and how it
contributes to difference. Note that there are times when we attribute difference to other
dimensions of diversity when a basic personality characteristic may also be an explanation.
KSU Extension: Diversity Training for Kentucky Extension Professionals
Diversity Wheel – Participant Instructions
1. Choose two dimensions from the wheel to focus on for this activity and clearly identify the
aspects of diversity (differences) that you bring on these two factors.
2. What strengths/advantages do these two differences bring to the work group? Be as specific
as you can.
3. What potential conflicts are created because of the two differences you bring to the work
group/team?
4. Have you ever felt like an “outsider” in a work group because of the differences you
identified?
5. Think about a strategy you have used to either maximize the strength of a difference you
identified, OR to minimize the conflict associated with a difference you identified.
For more information contact:
Nancy C. Cálix
State Extension Specialist for Hispanic Initiative
and Certified Trainer for Navigating Difference
Telephone: 502-597-5233
Cell Phone:502-803-0248
Email: nancy.calix@kysu.edu
Primary dimensions are aspects that are more permanent. Note that some may change over
the course of one’s life, examples include physical ability or gender.
The Secondary dimension shows factors that are subject to change over the course of one’s
life and individuals may have more control over. Note that these factors are not entirely
controlled, for example, health status or income.
Organizational dimension factors take into account status, experience, and job function.
Hand out Diversity Wheel Participant Instructions. Allow participant to engage in the activity.
Depending on time, allow 10-15 minutes for discussion. Have volunteers share examples of strengths
and barriers. Point out that becoming more aware of our own differences and how these differences
affect individual and group dynamics in our lives can also increase our sensitivity to the differences
others bring to our daily interactions.
Source: Deen, M., Huskey, M., Parker, L. (2010) Navigating Difference Cultural Competency Training
for Outreach Professionals.
Graphic Design: Wyvette Williams, Graphic Designer, Kentucky State University, College of
Agriculture, Food Science, and Sustainable Systems, Frankfort, KY
Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Program serve all people regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability, or national origin.