The Imperative of Cognitive Diversity in Athletic Training Education: A Leadership Literacy

Abstract

Context The increasing stakeholder diversity in athletic training requires a shift in leadership approaches and necessitates highlighting the need for embracing cognitive diversity. Objective Explore the concept of cognitive diversity and its potential to positively impact patient care and interprofessional practice. Background Cognitive diversity encompasses variations in unobservable attributes such as attitudes, values, and beliefs, including differences in problem-solving and thinking strategies. It goes beyond traditional diversity initiatives that focus on observable traits. Embracing cognitive diversity can enhance the effectiveness of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access initiatives in athletic training, ultimately improving patient care. Synthesis Cognitive diversity serves as a prerequisite to effective diversity, equity, inclusion, and access initiatives. It offers advantages such as enhanced problem-solving, genuine inclusivity, increased access, and improved communication and collaboration. It fosters a culture of continuous learning, cultural sensitivity, and personalized care. Recognizing the nuances of cognitive diversity is crucial for effective interprofessional practice and empathetic patient care. Results This article delineates the necessity of cognitive diversity, highlighting the critical component of recognizing unobservable differences between individuals. Cognitive diversity benefits athletic trainers and advances the profession of athletic training through fostering genuine respect, collaboration, and teamwork. Recommendation(s) Cognitive diversity should be integrated into athletic training education as a prerequisite for clinical practice. Teaching only limited aspects of diversity—those that include observable differences between individuals—may reinforce avoidable biases. Faculty should include and develop curricula that introduce cognitive diversity early in professional preparation. Conclusions The increasing complexity of athletic training demands an evolution in leadership literacy that focuses on embracing cognitive diversity. Athletic trainers can apply the benefits of cognitive diversity through compassionate leadership, interprofessional activities, and an understanding of its interplay with cultural diversity. Educators should adapt curricula and continuing education to include cognitive diversity models.