Introduction to Diversity in the Workplace from edX

This course from Rice University’s Jones Graduate School of Business introduces you to the value and challenges of championing diversity and inclusion.

With a foundation in effective recruitment and management strategies to attract and retain diverse talent, it explores the basics of diversity, why diversity matters at an organizational level and its moral, financial and realistic imperative.

Learners will create a diversity needs analysis for their organization and learn discrimination reduction tactics to overcome workplace bias—how, at an organizational level, one can reduce the negative impact of bias among employees, regardless of rank or competency.

What you'll learn

The different types of diversity in the workplace.
The differences between stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination as different elements of bias.
Strategies for reducing bias in an organization.
Strategies for allies to reduce bias in the workplace.
Leadership interventions based on the diversity needs of an organization.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Ideal for beginners or those unfamiliar with topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as it covers the basics

Relevant to learners in management roles who want to cultivate a more inclusive workplace

Instructors, Dr. Eden King and Dr. Mikki Hebl, are reputable in the field of diversity and inclusion

Covers crucial topics of stereotype, prejudice, and discrimination

The course requires prerequisites, such as foundational knowledge in management

Examines discrimination reduction tactics to equip learners with practical tools for fostering inclusivity

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 Introduction to Diversity in the Workplace with these activities:

Create a Diversity and Inclusion Resource Library

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Provides a centralized repository of resources and information to support ongoing learning and engagement with diversity and inclusion.

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Collect and organize articles, books, videos, and other resources related to diversity and inclusion.
Create a digital or physical library accessible to colleagues and peers.
Regularly review and update the library to ensure it remains current and relevant.

Connect with Diversity and Inclusion Professionals

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Builds a network of professionals who can provide support and insights on diversity and inclusion practices.

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Attend industry events and conferences focused on diversity and inclusion.
Reach out to professionals in your field who are known for their work in diversity and inclusion.
Join online communities and discussion forums related to diversity and inclusion.

Attend a Diversity and Inclusion Workshop

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Provides an opportunity to engage with experts and learn about best practices in diversity and inclusion.

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Research and identify a relevant workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.
Reflect on the content and insights gained from the workshop and consider how to apply them in your own context.

Six other activities

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Tutorial: Algorithmic Bias Detection

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Watch this video tutorial on techniques for detecting algorithmic bias, reinforcing your understanding of its impact on organizational decision-making.

Browse courses on Algorithmic Bias

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Review the course syllabus to identify key concepts related to algorithmic bias.
Explore the Fairness 360 library for bias mitigation
Complete the tutorial on algorithmic bias detection
Document your learning and insights

Read 'Diversity' by Ibram X. Kendi

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Provides a critical understanding of the differences between stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination and how they manifest in society.

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Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on key points and concepts.
Summarize the main arguments and perspectives presented in the book.
Reflect on how the insights gained from the book can be applied to your own workplace experiences.

Case Study Analysis: Identifying Biases in Hiring Decisions

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Enhances skills in analyzing real-world scenarios and identifying potential biases in hiring practices.

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Review the case study materials and analyze the hiring process described.
Identify any potential biases or discriminatory practices that could be present.
Develop recommendations for改进ing the hiring process to reduce bias.

Develop a Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan

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Provides practical experience in developing strategies and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion within an organization.

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Conduct a needs assessment to identify areas for improvement in diversity and inclusion.
Research best practices and case studies on successful diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Draft an action plan outlining specific goals, strategies, and timelines for implementation.
Present the action plan to stakeholders and gather feedback.

Mentor Underrepresented Students in STEM

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Develops leadership and communication skills while supporting the development of future diverse leaders in STEM.

Browse courses on STEM

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Volunteer or apply for a mentoring program that pairs you with underrepresented students in STEM.
Provide guidance and support on academic, career, and professional development.
Encourage and empower students to pursue their interests and aspirations in STEM.

Develop a Diversity and Inclusion Training Module

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Develops expertise in designing and delivering training programs that promote diversity and inclusion.

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Research and identify best practices in diversity and inclusion training.
Create a training module that includes interactive exercises, case studies, and discussion points.
Pilot the training module with a small group and gather feedback.
Revise and refine the training module based on feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Diversity in the Workplace will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Chief Diversity Officer

In this role, in which the main responsiblity is to oversee and implement diversity and inclusion initiatives across an organization, an understanding of diversity and bias reduction tactics is key. This course will give you a strong foundation in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Diversity Officer

Diversity and Inclusion Manager

Diversity and Inclusion Managers plan, implement, and manage diversity initiatives that drive organizational improvement, and in this course, you will learn the basics of diversity, including what it is, why it matters at an organizational level, and its moral, financial, and realistic imperative.

See salaries and explore the career path for Diversity and Inclusion Manager

Human Resources Specialist

For Human Resources Specialists, an understanding of the value and challenges of workplace diversity is important. They need to be able to create a diverse and inclusive work environment, manage and recruit diverse employees, and help the organization to avoid discrimination. This course gives them a strong foundation in these areas.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Specialist

Organizational Psychologist

Organizational Psychologists study how people behave in organizations, and they use this knowledge to help organizations improve their performance. This includes creating more diverse and inclusive workplaces. This course can give you a strong foundation in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Organizational Psychologist

EEO Officer

EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity) Officers are responsible for ensuring equal employment opportunities and preventing discrimination in the workplace. This course can give you the skills you need to succeed in this role, including strategies for reducing bias in an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for EEO Officer

Social Worker

Social Workers help people overcome challenges and improve their lives, and this often includes working with diverse populations. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Community Organizer

Community Organizers work to improve the lives of people in their communities, and this often includes promoting diversity and inclusion. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer

Journalist

Journalists report on the news and current events, and this often includes covering issues of diversity and inclusion. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Lawyer

Lawyers represent clients in legal matters, and this often includes cases involving discrimination or other issues related to diversity and inclusion. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Teacher

Teachers educate students and help them to develop important skills and knowledge, and this includes creating more diverse and inclusive classrooms. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Counselor

Counselors help people overcome challenges and improve their lives, and this often includes working with diverse populations. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Counselor

Nonprofit Executive Director

Nonprofit Executive Directors lead nonprofit organizations and are responsible for their overall success. This often includes creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Executive Director

Business Analyst

Business Analysts help organizations improve their performance, and this often includes creating more diverse and inclusive workplaces. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Manager

Managers lead and motivate teams of employees, and this often includes creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Manager

Consultant

Consultants help organizations solve problems and improve their performance, and this often includes creating more diverse and inclusive workplaces. This course can give you the skills you need to be successful in this field, including strategies for reducing bias and promoting inclusion.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Introduction to Diversity in the Workplace

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