Sorting Hats and the Management Classroom: How Diversity in Individuals and Teams Is Examined Using the Harry Potter Hogwarts Houses

This manuscript reports the use of a popular simulation in conjunction with the Hogwarts Houses of Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin in our management classes. We had two main goals: 1) to help students better understand individual differences and values, and how those differences may manifest as behaviors; 2) to investigate this dynamic in both homogenous and diverse teams-including management considerations such as decision-making skills and communication. The article outlines the exercise and provides examples of how instructors can use this in management classes. Sample debriefing questions and student feedback is also provided.