IOP2607 Assignment 2 (DETAILED ANSWERS) Semester 1 2024 - DISTINCTION GUARANTEED Answers, guidelines, workings and references ............................................CASE STUDY Lerato Tech is a leading technology company based in Pretoria, known for its cutting-edge innovations. Recently, the company has recognised the need to address diversity issues within its organisational culture. Management of Lerato Tech have identified challenges related to prejudice, the formation of prejudiced attitudes, and various forms of discrimination within the organisation. Certain teams consistently exclude members from diverse backgrounds in critical decision-making processes and project assignments. Despite reports of prejudiced attitudes, some leaders at Lerato Tech downplay the significance of diversity-related challenges, viewing them as isolated incidents. The organisation unintentionally fosters a culture where employees feel pressured to conform to a dominant cultural norm, stifling individual expression and unique contributions. Instances of subtle discrimination go unaddressed, leading to increased tension and reduced employee morale within the organisation. These challenges have prompted a closer examination of the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment. QUESTION 1: UNDERSTANDING PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION (10 MARKS) a. What is the definition of prejudice in the context of workplace dynamics? (2) b. Reece and Brandt's (1993) identified factors contributing to the development of prejudice—contamination, ethnocentrism, and economic conditions. Explain how employees at Lerato Tech might develop prejudiced attitudes according to these factors. (8) QUESTION 2: IMPLEMENTATION OF DIVERSITY INITIATIVES (10 MARKS) a. Describe the diversity interventions that Lerato Tech can implement to change organisational culture according to Cross and White (1996). Ensure that you relate your answer to the case study. (10) QUESTION 3: DIVERSITY PARADIGMS (10 MARKS) a. Describe the include/exclude paradigm and explain how Lerato Tech can actively include diverse perspectives in decision-making processes? (4) b. Discuss the deny paradigm and the risks of denying diversity-related challenges. What strategies can Lerato Tech use to address and alleviate biases effectively? (3) c. Describe the assimilate paradigm and why it is important for Lerato Tech to celebrate cultural differences rather than assimilate? (3) TOTAL: [30]
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