Medicine

Diversity – it’s a word that is common in the news today. While many in society assume the definition relates only to the inclusion of persons of different races or cultures, the Merriam-Webster Online dictionary defines diversity as “the condition of having or being composed of differing elements.” Or, in other words, a mixture, blend or assortment.

In his book, The Difference: How the Power of Diversity Creates Better Groups, Firms, Schools, and Societies, Scott E. Page introduces us to the diversity of learning, He demonstrates why in today’s workplace, it is important to build teams of individuals who see things differently and process information in other methods.

He points out that for many problems, multiple heads are better than one, and a group of diverse individuals often are more creative and effective when confronted with a challenge. Our department has been using this concept in the medical education arena as well. Several of our faculty are using “Team-Based Learning” as a teaching method. With this method, the team almost always creates a better solution to the problem at hand than even the most astute student working independently.

Our department has opportunities for a diverse group of faculty, trainees, and staff. Brainstorming as a group creates a sense of belonging and, as Mr. Page and our own experience indicate, diversity trumps individual ability in problem-solving. Combining our knowledge and efforts to enhance our department will benefit all. Ours skills and abilities may differ but the diversity of our “team” shows our resilience.
 

Newsletter Committee

Any comments or suggestions? Looking to get some information out to the Department? Please email Kathy Rafel at krafel@mcw.edu with any queries.