Bridging diversity and career plateau: Perceptions of private secondary school teachers in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between diversity and career plateau among teachers in selected private secondary schools in Isoko North, Ukwuani, and Ethiope East local Government Areas of Delta state, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to ascertain the influence of demographic diversity (DD), cultural diversity (CD) and intellectual and academic diversity (IAD) on career plateau (CP). Survey research design was utilized in this investigation. The study population comprised of teachers in selected private secondary schools in Isoko North, Ukwuani, and Ethiope East local Government Areas of Delta state. However, convenience sampling technique was used to select 200 respondents. The responses obtained from the respondents were coded and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation statistics and simple linear regressions with the aid of SPSS version 23. The findings revealed that there is significant positive effect of demographic diversity (t= 8.04, p<0.05), cultural diversity (t= 7.00, p<0.05) and intellectual and academic diversity (t= 7.59, p<0.05) on career plateau. The study recommends that Organizations (private secondary schools) should comprehend how variability in DD, CD and IAD affect CP and then consider strategies such as inclusive policies and practices to ensure that diverse employees receive equal career progression opportunities and support to overcome potential plateaus. Through inclusive policies and practices, organization can alleviate the unexpected career plateau effects associated with DD, CD and IAD, encourage an unbiased and conducive work environment for all employees.

Keywords: Diversity, Demographic Diversity, Cultural Diversity, Intellectual and Academic Diversity, Career Plateau.