Implementation of diversity management contents into the curricula of higher education institutions in Western Balkans countries

Abstract

The present-day globalised world is becoming more and more diverse because of migrations and other socioeconomic changes in society. Due to the deep-rooted stereotypes and negative attitude towards “differentness”, discrimination based on diversity is becoming more and more common. Our society has become multicultural and multi-ethnic, which is something that educational institutions must be aware of; hence, the traditional learning contents in the curricula of individual study programmes must be modified. We must discuss the importance of diversity, the various types, forms and consequences of diversity, the causes behind it, and the influence of higher education institutions on the acceptance and promotion of diversity if we wish to encourage students to develop a culture, values and attitudes for a positive evaluation of diversity. By doing so, we will be able to achieve sustainable development at higher education institutions, which requires observance of the laws of the natural environment and of the cultural relationships within society, as well as their balance, since education for sustainable development motivates, provides knowledge, creates new paths toward a more just and equal world, and enables learning that changes our understanding of the environment, of an individual’s habits, actions and lifestyles in order to attain a higher quality of living for the present and future generations. The study conducted among 1560 higher education teachers at higher education institutions in the Western Balkan countries has shown that the curricula of the subjects they teach mostly include those dimensions of diversity that affect an individual’s self-image. Moreover, they have established that regardless of their study course, students should be taught the differences among individuals regarding their level of education, esteem, work experience and position at the workplace. They have listed the case method, discussion method and problem-solving method as the most suitable methods for teaching diversity management. As one of the most important learning objectives in teaching diversity, they have emphasised understanding, raising the awareness of students of diversity, and familiarising them with the importance of incorporating diversity into everyday life.