Does Diversity Training Really Work?

Somewhat recent research propose that training in the area of diversity does little to nothing in the way of making a significant impact on behavioral change. Researchers at prestigious universities such as Princeton, Yale, and Columbia report that limited empirical evidence exists to support the benefits of diversity training.

There are several limitations to this study. The study involved a survey-design of 800 companies. The validity of survey design often lends itself to various limitations. For example, research shows that respondents to surveys often hurry through the answering of questions in an effort to complete the survey or fail to answer questions. Additionally, in many cases respondents do not fully understand the question or its implications. A major limitation specific to this study is the fact that the research sought to discover the impact of diversity on affirmative action and hiring practices. Affirmative action in and of itself carries substantial negative connotations that may have negatively influenced the the survey results. Additionally, as it relates to hiring practices, the respondents may not have been the most appropriate persons within the organization to respond to how diversity trainings impact hiring practices and foster behavioral change.

The study is right in one sense alone - more substantial research is needed on the impact of diversity training. Considering the current state of affairs in this country regarding tolerance among race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, political choice etc. more diversity training can only help.