OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
Coursera logo

Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations

4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 11 ratings
see reviews
Jessica Danielle Tollette, PhD

This course on Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations will support individuals, teams, and organizations to better understand and implement policies and practices that promote the inclusion as well as the belonging of all employees. We aim to cover the following topics:

Policies - How to identify and understand the ways in which the structural dynamics of an organization can preclude a sense of belonging and how to use inclusive policies as a tool to foster belonging.

Read more

This course on Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations will support individuals, teams, and organizations to better understand and implement policies and practices that promote the inclusion as well as the belonging of all employees. We aim to cover the following topics:

Policies - How to identify and understand the ways in which the structural dynamics of an organization can preclude a sense of belonging and how to use inclusive policies as a tool to foster belonging.

Practices - How to design an organizational culture that promotes the well-being and belonging of all its constituents through kindness, empathy, openness, and compassion.

People - How to leverage the creation of affinity groups and task forces to overcome structural biases, build community, and create a greater sense of belonging.

The final module of the course provides complementary resources to bring course concepts together and support an organization's belonging efforts.

Enroll now

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until March 12, 2027
Save 40% Off 3 Months
Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.
Take
40%
off
Get offer

What's inside

Syllabus

Policies: A Structural Approach to Belonging
This course is structured around three pillars of belonging: Policies, Practices, and People. The first module focuses on how to implement inclusive policies.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores best practices for creating policies that promote a sense of belonging for employees
Teaches the importance of a diverse culture that fosters belonging
Provides strategies for individuals to promote equity and inclusion
Examines organizational structures that promote belonging
Requires learners to come in with some background knowledge
May not be suitable for learners without experience or a similar background

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Understanding workplace diversity and belonging

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking introduction to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within organizational contexts. Many found the content highly relevant and applicable, providing a strong foundational understanding of policies, practices, and the role of people in fostering belonging. Students especially valued the practical examples and real-world case studies, making complex concepts accessible. A few noted it as a good starting point for those new to the subject, though some wished for more in-depth exploration or less repetition in certain modules. The instructors were generally well-received, contributing to an engaging learning experience.
Best suited for those new to diversity topics.
"As someone new to serious DEI discussions, this course was an eye-opener and a great entry point."
"I'd recommend this for beginners; it lays out the core concepts without overwhelming you."
"If you're looking for an initial understanding of DEI, this course is perfectly adequate."
Lectures and readings are clear and engaging.
"I appreciated the blend of readings and videos; it kept me engaged and helped solidify my understanding."
"The instructors were engaging, and the course materials were well-structured and easy to follow."
"The course content was presented clearly and thoughtfully, making complex ideas understandable."
Delivers actionable insights for real-world scenarios.
"The practical examples shared throughout the modules made it easy to see how to apply the concepts in my own business."
"I gained valuable strategies and tools that I can immediately implement in my team to foster a more inclusive environment."
"This course provided me with actionable steps to promote belonging, not just theoretical knowledge."
Provides a robust introduction to DEI concepts.
"This course offers a really solid foundation in understanding diversity and belonging in the workplace."
"I found the course to be very comprehensive, covering all the essential pillars of D&B effectively."
"It’s an excellent starting point for anyone looking to grasp the fundamentals of DEI in organizations."
A few found some information repetitive.
"There was some repetition across modules, which occasionally made it feel a bit drawn out."
"I noticed some concepts being reiterated multiple times, which wasn't always necessary."
"A few sections felt a bit redundant, but overall, the key messages were clear."
Some learners desired more advanced content.
"While very good, I felt some topics could have been explored in greater depth for those with existing knowledge."
"The course felt a bit introductory at times; I was hoping for more advanced strategies and nuanced discussions."
"I would have liked a more in-depth exploration of specific challenges and solutions in diverse organizations."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations with these activities:
Review Communication Skills
Refreshing your communication skills will enhance your ability to effectively convey ideas and foster inclusive conversations in diverse work environments.
Browse courses on Communication Skills
Show steps
  • Review resources on effective communication strategies.
  • Practice active listening and empathy in conversations.
  • Seek feedback from colleagues on your communication style.
Connect with Mentors for Guidance
Seeking guidance from experienced professionals will enhance your understanding of diversity and belonging in organizations.
Browse courses on Mentoring
Show steps
  • Identify individuals in your field who have expertise in diversity and belonging.
  • Reach out to these individuals via email or LinkedIn and express your interest in connecting.
  • Request a brief meeting to learn from their experiences and insights.
Practice Inclusive Language Exercises
Engaging in inclusive language exercises will improve your ability to use language that is respectful, inclusive, and free of bias.
Browse courses on Inclusive Language
Show steps
  • Identify common phrases or terms that may be biased or exclusive.
  • Practice using alternative, more inclusive language in everyday conversations.
  • Seek feedback from colleagues on your progress.
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Diversity concepts basis
Review key concepts of diversity and inclusion to establish a foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Diversity
Show steps
  • Review course syllabus and identify key diversity and inclusion concepts.
  • Read assigned readings on diversity and inclusion.
  • Summarize key concepts in your own words.
Read 'The Culture Code' by Daniel Coyle
Reading 'The Culture Code' will provide you with valuable insights into the elements that contribute to a strong organizational culture and a sense of belonging.
View Electric cables, their construction and cost,... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of 'The Culture Code'.
  • Set aside dedicated time each day for reading.
  • Take notes on key concepts and ideas that resonate with you.
  • Reflect on how these concepts can be applied to your own organization.
Workplace diversity discussions
Engage in discussions with peers to share and learn diverse perspectives on workplace diversity.
Browse courses on Workplace Diversity
Show steps
  • Join a study group or online forum for the course.
  • Participate in discussions on topics related to workplace diversity.
  • Share your own experiences and insights.
Volunteer with Organizations Promoting Belonging
Engaging in volunteer work will provide you with practical experience in promoting diversity and belonging, and help you build valuable connections.
Browse courses on Employee Resource Groups
Show steps
  • Research organizations in your community that are dedicated to promoting diversity and belonging.
  • Identify opportunities to volunteer your time and skills with these organizations.
  • Participate in volunteer activities and engage with other volunteers.
  • Reflect on your experiences and identify key learnings that you can apply to your own organization.
Design an Inclusive Policy
Crafting an inclusive policy will help you understand the key elements of developing equitable and just policies for your organization.
Show steps
  • Identify areas of bias or exclusion within your organization.
  • Research best practices for creating inclusive policies.
  • Draft a policy that addresses the identified areas of bias and exclusion.
  • Review the policy with stakeholders to gather feedback and make revisions.
  • Implement the policy and monitor its effectiveness.
Develop a Diversity and Belonging Toolkit
Creating a toolkit will provide you with a valuable resource that can be used to implement diversity and belonging initiatives within your organization.
Show steps
  • Identify the key components of a diversity and belonging toolkit.
  • Gather resources and materials that align with these components.
  • Organize and compile the resources into a user-friendly format.
  • Review and refine the toolkit with feedback from colleagues and stakeholders.
Diversity and Inclusion Case Study
Analyze a real-world case study to apply diversity and inclusion concepts and develop practical solutions.
Browse courses on Case study
Show steps
  • Research and identify a relevant case study on diversity and inclusion.
  • Analyze the case study using the concepts learned in the course.
  • Develop and present recommendations for addressing the diversity and inclusion issues in the case study.

Career center

Learners who complete Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Diversity and Inclusion Human Resources Manager
A Diversity and Inclusion Human Resources Manager works closely with the Human Resources department, as well as various other departments within a company, to ensure that company culture and policies are inclusive, fair, and diverse. Diversity and Inclusion Human Resource Managers may be involved with recruitment, retention, and employee engagement initiatives. They may also have to work on outreach, marketing, or company policy initiatives. Taking this course will help you to understand the importance and relevance of diversity, inclusion, and belonging as it pertains to human resources. It will teach you about key policies and practices that are needed to foster diversity and inclusion within an organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Diversity and Inclusion Human Resources Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Managers ensure that the business practices and policies of their company reflect the social and environmental values of its customers. CSR Managers help companies to develop sustainability programs, improve their environmental impact, and engage with local communities. This course will help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion within a CSR framework and how CSR and Diversity initiatives can work together within an organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
A Diversity and Inclusion Manager is responsible for the development and implementation of corporate strategies and initiatives to ensure diversity and equity of the workplace. They work to promote inclusion, equality, and belonging for all employees. The course will help you to understand the importance and relevance of diversity, inclusion, and belonging as it pertains to management and leadership. It will teach you about key policies and practices that are needed to foster diversity and inclusion within an organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Community Outreach Manager
Community Outreach Managers are responsible for developing and managing community outreach programs on behalf of an organization. They work to build relationships with community organizations, identify community needs, and develop programs that address those needs. Such managers are often employed in public health, education, or government organizations. This course can help you to understand how diversity, inclusion, and belonging are relevant to community outreach. It will help you to understand the importance of inclusion when it comes to working with a diverse population.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Outreach Manager
Employee Engagement Manager
Employee Engagement Managers are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to improve employee engagement and satisfaction. They work to create a positive and inclusive work environment, and to ensure that employees feel valued and respected. This course will help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving employee engagement. It will teach you about practices and policies that can be used to foster a sense of belonging for all employees.
See salaries and explore the career path for Employee Engagement Manager
Corporate Recruiter
Corporate Recruiters are responsible for attracting and hiring new talent for an organization. They work to develop and implement recruitment strategies, and to build relationships with candidates and hiring managers. This course may be useful for Corporate Recruiters who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand how to attract and hire a diverse workforce, and how to create a more inclusive and welcoming workplace.
See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Recruiter
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for the development and implementation of marketing campaigns. They work to identify target markets, develop marketing messages, and execute marketing programs. This course may be useful for Marketing Managers who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand how to create more inclusive and diverse marketing campaigns, and how to better target diverse customer segments.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers are responsible for managing the public image of an organization. They work to develop and implement public relations campaigns, and to build relationships with the media and other stakeholders. This course may be useful for Public Relations Managers who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand how to build more inclusive and diverse relationships with the media and other stakeholders, and how to create more inclusive public relations campaigns.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public relations manager
Human Resources Business Partner
Human Resources Business Partners work closely with business leaders to develop and implement human resources strategies. They provide guidance on a variety of human resources issues, including diversity and inclusion. This course may be useful for Human Resources Business Partners who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving business success, and how to develop and implement effective diversity and inclusion strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Business Partner
Talent Acquisition Manager
Talent Acquisition Managers are responsible for the development and implementation of talent acquisition strategies. They work to attract and hire new talent for an organization. This course may be useful for Talent Acquisition Managers who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand how to attract and hire a diverse workforce, and how to create a more inclusive and welcoming workplace.
See salaries and explore the career path for Talent Acquisition Manager
Organizational Development Manager
Organizational Development Managers are responsible for the development and implementation of organizational development strategies. They work to improve organizational performance and effectiveness. This course may be useful for Organizational Development Managers who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving organizational success, and how to develop and implement effective diversity and inclusion strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Organizational Development Manager
Training and Development Manager
Training and Development Managers are responsible for the development and implementation of training and development programs for employees. This course may be useful for Training and Development Managers who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving employee engagement and performance, and how to develop and implement effective diversity and inclusion training programs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Training and Development Manager
Human Resources Generalist
Human Resources Generalists provide support to human resources departments on a variety of tasks, including diversity and inclusion. This course may be useful for Human Resources Generalists who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving organizational success, and how to develop and implement effective diversity and inclusion strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Generalist
Union Representative
Union Representatives are responsible for representing the interests of union members. They work to negotiate contracts, resolve grievances, and protect the rights of workers. This course may be useful for Union Representatives who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving union success, and how to develop and implement effective diversity and inclusion strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Union Representative
Employee Relations Manager
Employee Relations Managers are responsible for managing employee relations and resolving workplace disputes. They work to create and maintain a positive and productive work environment. This course may be useful for Employee Relations Managers who wish to understand more about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. It can help you to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving employee engagement and performance, and how to develop and implement effective diversity and inclusion strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Employee Relations Manager

Reading list

We've selected 11 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 Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations.
Cover image
Discovering Leadership
Save
Presents a compelling case for diversity and inclusion. It demonstrates how diverse teams are more innovative, productive, and successful. It must-read for anyone who wants to build a more inclusive workplace.
Discovering Leadership
Paperback
Check
Discovering Leadership
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Penguin Readers Level 4: No Rules Rules (ELT Graded...
Save
Explores the different cultural norms that exist around the world and how they can impact business interactions. It valuable resource for anyone who works with people from different cultures.
Penguin Readers Level 4: No Rules Rules (ELT Graded...
Paperback
Check
Penguin Readers Level 4: No Rules Rules (ELT Graded...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Electric Cables
Save
Explores the importance of culture in organizations. It offers insights into how to create a culture of belonging and inclusion. While it is not specifically focused on diversity, it is still a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about creating a positive work environment.
Electric cables, their construction and cost, 1909...
Leather Bound
$$$
Cover image
The Happiness Advantage
Save
Explores the link between happiness and success. It offers practical tips for creating a more positive work environment and improving your overall well-being.
The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels...
Paperback
$$
Big Potential: How Transforming the Pursuit of...
Hardcover
$$
Before Happiness: The 5 Hidden Keys to Achieving...
Hardcover
$$
The Happiness Advantage, Drive Daniel H Pink 2...
Paperback
$$
Happiness Advantage, So Good They Cant Ignore You,...
Paperback
$$$
The Happiness Trap, Happiness A Guide to Developing...
Paperback
$$$
The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Rising Strong
Save
Explores the importance of vulnerability in our personal and professional lives. It offers insights into how to overcome our fears and build more authentic relationships.
Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations....
Hardcover
$$
Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms...
Paperback
$
(Español) Más fuerte que nunca / Rising Strong: How the...
Paperback
$$
Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms...
Kindle Edition
$$
(Deutsch) Laufen lernt man nur durch Hinfallen: Wie wir zu...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Entrepreneurial You
Save
Offers practical advice for building a strong personal brand. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to build a more successful career.
Entrepreneurial You
Paperback
Check
Entrepreneurial You
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
A Mission Statement for Your Life
Save
Classic in the field of personal development. It offers practical advice for living a more successful and fulfilling life. While it does not specifically focus on diversity and inclusion, it is still a valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their overall effectiveness.
A Mission Statement for Your Life
Paperback
Check
A Mission Statement for Your Life
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword
Save
Explores the challenges that large organizations face when they try to innovate. It offers insights into how to create a more innovative culture and avoid the pitfalls that can lead to failure.
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Hardcover
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Audio CD
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Kindle Edition
$$
Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Save
Offers practical advice for startups and small businesses. It shows how to use the lean startup methodology to test new ideas and build a successful business.
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Hardcover
$$
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Hard Thing About Hard Things
Save
Offers real-world advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders. It explores the challenges that startups and small businesses face and how to overcome them.
The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a...
Hardcover
$$
The Hard Thing About Hard Things [Hardcover] By Ben...
Paperback
$$
(Español) Emprender y liderar una startup: El duro camino has...
Kindle Edition
$
The Hard Thing About Hard Things [Hardcover],...
Paperback
$$
The hard thing about hard things: ondernemen zonder...
Paperback
$$$
Summary of 'The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben...
Audible Audiobook
$
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, Or How to Build the...
Save
Offers a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and innovation. It explores the importance of creating new markets and building businesses that are truly different from anything else in the world.
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the...
Hardcover
$$
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the...
Kindle Edition
$$

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations.
Hiring Practices
Most relevant
Inclusive Leadership: The Power of Workplace Diversity
Most relevant
Liabilities and Equity in Accounting
Most relevant
Designing and Building Institutional Anti-Racist Spaces
Most relevant
Leading Diverse Teams & Organizations
Most relevant
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Applications for...
Most relevant
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Best Practices for...
Most relevant
Social Work Practice: Advocating Social Justice and Change
Most relevant
Organizational Leadership Capstone
Most relevant

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Accredited University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions; free audit option available on most individual courses to explore video lectures and readings at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Refund Guarantee

14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus subscriptions and single-course purchases prior to certificate issuance. Monthly subscriptions do not offer refunds once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Accredited university and industry certifications (e.g. Stanford, Google, IBM, Yale), secure SSL payment processing, and verifiable digital certificate links.

Key Purchase Protections
14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus and single courses
7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions
Free course audit option for lectures and readings
Verified certificates from top universities & companies
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Rating
4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
9 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
IE Business School
Instructor
Jessica Danielle Tollette, PhD
Language
English
Transcript
tiếng Việt
This course belongs to a collection called The Journey to Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations (viewing)
  2. Diversity with Inclusion in Organizations
  3. Cognitive and Experiential Diversity
  4. Fundamentals of Diversity
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores best practices for creating policies that promote a sense of belonging for employees
Teaches the importance of a diverse culture that fosters belonging
Provides strategies for individuals to promote equity and inclusion
Examines organizational structures that promote belonging
Requires learners to come in with some background knowledge
May not be suitable for learners without experience or a similar background
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Diversity and Belonging in Businesses and Organizations.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser