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Psychology of Diversity and Unconscious Bias

Andrew Luttrell, Ph.D.

Many people understand that diversity and unconscious bias are important issues to grapple with, but it’s difficult to get a strong handle on them. For years, social scientists have turned their attention to stereotyping and discrimination in order to use data and scientific methods to know more about why it happens and how to stop it.

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Many people understand that diversity and unconscious bias are important issues to grapple with, but it’s difficult to get a strong handle on them. For years, social scientists have turned their attention to stereotyping and discrimination in order to use data and scientific methods to know more about why it happens and how to stop it.

What You'll Learn

In this course we consider big ideas in diversity science with a focus on understanding concrete strategies to halt bias in its tracks. To know how to solve a problem, though, it’s necessary to understand the root of the problem. This course thus considers several major issues in diversity and unconscious bias, including:

  • The difference between stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination
  • How stereotypes affect judgments of others and our own performance
  • How prejudice stems from simple group mentalities
  • How to best approach diversity
  • How to reduce the effects of conscious and unconscious bias

Through comprehensive videos, slide presentations, exercises, and quizzes, you will learn about the fascinating science of prejudice and discrimination. This course is modeled on university curricula and workplace training that you could spend thousands of dollars on.

Why Learn From Me?

As an award-winning psychology instructor, I have experience translating research in the field and presenting it in an engaging, understandable way. My students routinely evaluate my courses highly and comment on the passion I have for social psychology. I hope you can join this group of satisfied students and learn something new about yourself and psychology.

So take this course now and understand the science of diversity and unconscious bias...and how to address this common social issue.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand the difference between stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination.
  • Identify acts of stereotyping.
  • Develop the ideal mentality for engaging with an increasingly diverse society.
  • Implement tested strategies for undermining unconscious biases.

Syllabus

In this opening section, we'll get to know what this course is all about, and you'll have the chance to see for yourself how easily unconscious bias can seep into our judgments.
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Introduction
A Scientific Approach to Prejudice
In this section, you will understand the differences between three key elements of diversity issues: stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination.
What are Stereotypes?
What is Prejudice?
What is Discrimination?
Exercise: Keeping the 3 Separate
Quiz: Stereotypes vs. Prejudice vs. Discrimination
Now that you know what stereotypes are and why they're different from prejudice, this section will dive deeper into the effects of stereotypes.
Introduction to Stereotypes and Their Effects
Stereotype Effects on Perception
Stereotype Effects on Evaluation
Stereotype Effects on Our Memories
Stereotype Effects
A big field of study in psychology is related to stereotypes' effects on the people who belong to stereotyped groups. These issues raise questions about achievement gaps regarding race and gender.
Introduction to Stereotype Threat
What is Stereotype Threat?
When Stereotype Threat Happens Most
Solutions to Reduce Stereotype Threat

Test your learning of Stereotype Threat!

Social psychologists have long noticed that people divide the world in terms of "us" vs. "them." This can result in prejudice in sometimes surprising ways.
The Psychology of "Social Identity"
Prejudice and Inherently Meaningless Groups
Bonus: More on Social Identity Theory

Test your knowledge of the origins of prejudice.

Many societies are getting more diverse, and in this section we discuss the benefits of that diversity, the challenges that come with it, and best practices.
An Increasingly Diverse Society
The Benefits of Diversity
Challenges of Changing Social Demographics
Approaching Diversity: Colorblindness vs. Multiculturalism

Test your learning about diversity issues!

Having understood when and why people use stereotypes and prejudice, it's time to understand how to address these issues. In this section, we explore tested strategies for reducing bias.
How to Think About Prejudice Reduction
There's Hope!
Contact Theory
More on the Contact Hypothesis
Common Ingroup Identity
Stereotype Replacement
Perspective Taking
Exceptions to the "Rule"

Test your knowledge of some of the finer points of prejudice reduction.

Exercise: Using the Strategies in Your Life
Time to wrap up and send you on your way!
Thank You and Farewell!
Bonus: More Social Psychology from Andy Luttrell
Course Completion Certificate

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches a strong foundation of social psychology topics related to diversity and unconscious bias, which is useful for personal growth and development
Provides concrete strategies to halt bias, which is highly relevant to many industries and roles
Taught by an award-winning psychology instructor with experience presenting research in an engaging way
Modeled on university curricula and workplace training that students could pay thousands for elsewhere
Uses a multi-modal approach with videos, slide presentations, exercises, and quizzes
May require students to come in with some background knowledge in social psychology

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Reviews summary

Diversity and unconscious bias

Learners say this course is a largely positive remark and a well received exploration of the topics of diversity and unconscious bias. They specifically enjoy the grounding in research, which often includes multiple studies to support each concept. The speaker's clear explanations and calm, engaging delivery also adds to the experience. According to students, this course is especially timely given recent events and the heightened awareness of racial injustice. They appreciate the focus on science and data, as well as the emphasis on actionable solutions for reducing bias and discrimination. That said, some students critique the course for being too US-centric or for not including more recent research. Others feel that the material is overly simplistic or that the instructor's examples perpetuate stereotypes.
I especially enjoyed the integration of research to support the social science theories. Everything was well-explained and I liked that the presenter identified areas where the audience may have skepticism regarding the research and provided solid counterarguments.
"I especially enjoyed the integration of research to support the social science theories."
"Everything was well-explained and I liked that the presenter identified areas where the audience may have skepticism regarding the research and provided solid counterarguments."
The examples he provided helped me understand the terms and theories. His explanations are concise and well-formed. The quizzes also help test what you've learned, which is a great addition to the course.
"The examples he provided helped me understand the terms and theories."
"His explanations are concise and well-formed."
A very good course which has given me the motivation to study the subject further. Appropriate use of research facts not too in depth for the level of the course Thank you
"A very good course which has given me the motivation to study the subject further."
"Appropriate use of research facts not too in depth for the level of the course"
It defined a lot of the behavior I've seen and experienced on a more psychological level. It was very insightful and it makes me personally step back, and self-evaluate and aim to better improve my way of thinking.
"It defined a lot of the behavior I've seen and experienced on a more psychological level."
"It was very insightful and it makes me personally step back, and self-evaluate and aim to better improve my way of thinking."
Excellent course, there are plenty of practical application covered towards the end of the course and I do think it is important to learn about the background about biases so we can reduce them with deliberate practice.
"Excellent course, there are plenty of practical application covered towards the end of the course and I do think it is important to learn about the background about biases so we can reduce them with deliberate practice."
I have experienced subtle prejudice from people at work and in every day life. So much so that I recognize it for what it is and keep moving forward. People should not be prejudged without having adequate information about a person merely due to their skin color or nationality.
"I have experienced subtle prejudice from people at work and in every day life."
"People should not be prejudged without having adequate information about a person merely due to their skin color or nationality."

Activities

Coming soon We're preparing activities for Psychology of Diversity and Unconscious Bias. These are activities you can do either before, during, or after a course.

Career center

Learners who complete Psychology of Diversity and Unconscious Bias will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Diversity Consultant
Diversity Consultants are professionals who support organizations in developing and implementing their diversity and inclusion strategies. They may conduct training, provide advice, and help to create policies and procedures that promote a more inclusive workplace. This course provides a strong foundation in the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias, which are essential concepts for anyone working in this field. By understanding the causes and consequences of bias, Diversity Consultants can better develop effective strategies to address it.
Diversity Officer
Diversity Officers are responsible for developing and implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives within an organization. They may also provide training, conduct research, and advise on policy development. This course will help Diversity Officers build a foundation in the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and provide them with the knowledge and skills to develop and implement effective diversity and inclusion programs.
Equity Manager
Equity Managers are responsible for managing the equity of an organization's employees. This may include developing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure that employees are treated fairly and equitably. This course would be helpful for Equity Managers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to create a more inclusive workplace.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers are responsible for managing the human resources function of an organization, which includes recruiting, hiring, training, and development. They also play a key role in developing and implementing policies and procedures that promote a diverse and inclusive workplace. This course provides a strong foundation in the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias, which can help Human Resources Managers to better understand and address the challenges of creating a more inclusive workplace.
Psychologist
Psychologists are professionals who study the human mind and behavior. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and private practice. Psychologists who work in diversity and inclusion may provide therapy, conduct research, or consult with organizations on how to create more inclusive environments. This course would be helpful for Psychologists who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to create a more inclusive society.
Social Worker
Social Workers help people to cope with difficult life challenges, such as poverty, mental illness, and addiction. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and community centers. This course would be helpful for Social Workers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to help people from all backgrounds.
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. They may also provide consulting services to businesses and organizations. This course would be helpful for Professors who teach or research in the areas of diversity, inclusion, and unconscious bias. By understanding the psychology of these issues, Professors can develop more effective teaching and research agendas.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists help organizations to manage their public image. They may write press releases, organize events, and respond to media inquiries. This course would be helpful for Public Relations Specialists who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to build relationships with diverse audiences.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. They may work in a variety of settings, including private practice, government, and corporations. This course would be helpful for Lawyers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to advocate for the rights of all people.
Journalist
Journalists write, edit, and report on news and current events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, television, or radio. This course would be helpful for Journalists who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to report on the news in a fair and accurate way.
Marketer
Marketers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products and services. They may work for companies of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations. This course would be helpful for Marketers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to create more effective marketing campaigns.
Salesperson
Salespeople sell products and services to customers. They may work for companies of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations. This course would be helpful for Salespeople who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to build relationships with customers from all backgrounds.
Management Consultant
Management Consultants help organizations to improve their performance. They may work in a variety of areas, such as strategy, operations, and human resources. This course would be helpful for Management Consultants who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to create more inclusive and effective organizations.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. They may work for companies of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations. This course would be helpful for Data Analysts who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to analyze data in a fair and unbiased way.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts help organizations to improve their operations. They may analyze data, develop recommendations, and implement new processes. This course would be helpful for Business Analysts who want to develop a deeper understanding of the psychology of diversity and unconscious bias and how it can be used to create more inclusive and effective organizations.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Psychology of Diversity and Unconscious Bias.
This classic book provides a comprehensive overview of the psychology of prejudice, covering topics such as the origins of prejudice, the effects of prejudice on individuals and groups, and strategies for reducing prejudice. It foundational text in the field and is highly recommended for students and researchers.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination. It covers a wide range of topics, including the causes of prejudice, the effects of prejudice on individuals and groups, and strategies for reducing prejudice.
This classic work of literature offers a powerful and deeply personal exploration of race and the American experience.
Emphasizes the pervasiveness of unconscious bias and provides several useful tools for identifying and combating bias.
Argues that diversity is essential for innovation and growth, providing evidence from a variety of fields to support this claim. It offers practical advice for leaders on how to create more inclusive and diverse organizations.
Highlights the pervasive gender bias in data and its impact on women's lives. It provides a compelling case for addressing gender disparities in data collection and analysis.
Provides a practical guide to creating more inclusive workplaces. It offers advice on how to recognize and disrupt bias, and create a more equitable and productive workplace.
Provides background knowledge on the field of social psychology. It presents core concepts of the discipline which are beneficial to this course on unconscious bias and diversity.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of diversity in organizations. It covers topics such as the benefits and challenges of diversity, the role of leadership in creating inclusive environments, and strategies for reducing bias and discrimination.
Offers a practical framework for understanding cultural differences in business settings. It provides insights into how cultural factors influence communication, negotiation, and decision-making.
Provides historical context for understanding the complexities of affirmative action and racial inequality in the United States.
This comprehensive reader provides insights into intercultural communication and its impact on diversity and inclusion. It explores various cultural perspectives and communication styles.
This comprehensive textbook covers a wide range of topics in social psychology, including diversity and unconscious bias. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the psychological dynamics of social groups.

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