IDI 101

The Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) is an assessment tool which includes quantitative and qualitative data points to consider an individual's perceived orientation (PO) and developmental orientation (DO). After completing the assessment, an individual (me in this case) can see how their responses rate on the intercultural development continuum.  There tends to be an orientation gap between the PO and the DO.  In other words - we may perceive needed behavior and perceptions (the PO) which are different that our actual actions (the DO).  Completing the IDI allows us to recognize this gap and create a plan to minimize it or better align our perceptions with our actions.


Let's take a look at the intercultural development continuum:

This continuum illustrates the development from monocultural mindset to intercultural mindset.  Each category summarizes different frameworks for how individuals make sense of and recognize cultures and diversity. Leading Orientations indicate which dimensions are in front of your current orientation (i.e., if you identify at Minimalization than Acceptance and Adaptation would be your leading orientations.)  Reversely, Trailing Orientations are in back of your current orientation (i.e., Polarization and Denial are trailing Minimalization.) 


Here are some brief descriptions of each orientation:

Denial	Does not recognize (or avoids) deeper cultural difference
Polarization	Views differences as "us" vs. "them"
Minimalization	Recognizes humanity as common element, but may not see loss of cultural uniqueness
Acceptance	Recognizes and appreciates cultural difference
Adaptation	Can shift their perspective and change behavior authentically to fit in all cultures

The IDI also captures an individual's Cultural Disengagement. This is separate from the continuum, but allows for us to reflect on how connected we feel to our own culture. Assessing personal cultural disengagement may provide clues or insight to how we can develop our intercultural mindset.

Let's get this started

I am excited to join colleagues as part of the Diversity Faculty Learning Community (FLC) for the 2015-2016 academic year. I believe our community has potential to enhance the UC Blue Ash (and greater) communities with authentic conversation around celebrations and issues related to diversity.  I look forward to learning more about myself, my peers and how we can continue to improve relationships across culture.