Unpacking Diversity: Heterogeneous and U-Shaped Relationships between Team Diversity and Learning Outcomes

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 1:45 pm - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Transforming inclusive enviroments in higher education

Abstract

We examined how team demographic diversity influences students’ experiences and performance in a large undergraduate course. Using administrative records and survey data, we constructed a dissimilarity index capturing team-level diversity by gender, ethnicity, and student origin. Demographic dissimilarity negatively correlated with perceived team functioning but had a U-shaped relationship with academic outcomes—moderate diversity was associated with lower performance. We found heterogeneous effects by diversity type: ethnic diversity followed an inverted U-shape for team experience; gender diversity exhibited a U-shaped pattern; and origin diversity showed minimal impact on experience but benefited group assignment scores. These findings underscore the non-linear nature of diversity effects in teams and suggest the need for nuanced design and pedagogical strategies to foster equitable collaboration environments.

Authors

• Zhonghan Xie, University of Michigan

• Rebecca L. Matz, University of Michigan

• Robin Fowler, University of Michigan