Diversity Training Goals, Limitations, and Promise: A Review of the Multidisciplinary Literature

In this review, we utilize a narrative approach to synthesize the multidisciplinary literature on diversity training. In examining hundreds of articles on the topic, we discovered that the literature is amorphous and complex and does not allow us to reach decisive conclusions regarding best practices in diversity training. We note that scholars of diversity training, when testing the efficacy of their approaches, too often use proxy measures for success that are far removed from the types of consequential outcomes that reflect the purported goals of such trainings. We suggest that the enthusiasm for, and monetary investment in, diversity training has outpaced the available evidence that such programs are effective in achieving their goals. We recommend that researchers and practitioners work together for future investigations to propel the science of diversity training forward. We conclude with a roadmap for how to create a more rigorous and relevant science of diversity training.

Automated summary

The literature on diversity training is complex and lacking conclusive findings, with scholars using inadequate measures to assess the effectiveness of their approaches. There is a need for more research to determine the efficacy of diversity training programs, as the current enthusiasm may not be supported by evidence of their success. Collaboration between researchers and practitioners is crucial for advancing the science of diversity training.