Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the Workplace

Overview:

Cultivate a thriving and high-performing workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. This foundational short course provides a comprehensive understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles and their critical importance in today’s dynamic work environment. Participants will explore key concepts such as bias, privilege, and microaggressions, and gain practical strategies for fostering an inclusive culture, promoting equitable practices, and valuing the richness of diverse perspectives. Equip yourself with the awareness and skills to actively contribute to a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all.

Course Intent

This course provides a foundational understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles and their importance in creating a thriving workplace. Participants will explore concepts of bias, privilege, and microaggressions, and learn practical strategies for fostering an inclusive culture, promoting equitable practices, and valuing diverse perspectives. The course aims to equip individuals with the awareness and skills to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

Who Should Take This Course?

  1. Professionals at all levels

  2. Managers

  3. Team leaders

  4. HR professionals

  5. Anyone committed to building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.

Course Content

Module 1: Understanding the Fundamentals of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

  • Defining Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and their distinct meanings.
  • Exploring the dimensions of diversity (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, disability, age, socioeconomic status, etc.).
  • Understanding the business case for DEI: benefits for innovation, performance, and reputation.
  • Examining the social and ethical imperatives for creating inclusive and equitable workplaces.
  • Exploring relevant legal frameworks and policies related to DEI.
  • Establishing a shared language and understanding of key DEI concepts.

Module 2: Exploring Concepts of Bias and Unconscious Bias

  • Defining bias and its various forms (e.g., affinity bias, confirmation bias, anchoring bias).
  • Understanding the concept of unconscious (implicit) bias and its impact on workplace decisions.
  • Identifying common sources of unconscious bias.
  • Exploring tools and techniques for recognizing and mitigating your own unconscious biases.
  • Understanding the impact of bias on recruitment, promotion, performance evaluations, and team dynamics.
  • Strategies for challenging bias in yourself and others.

Module 3: Understanding Privilege and Intersectionality

  • Defining privilege and exploring different forms of privilege based on social identities.
  • Understanding how privilege can create disparities and impact workplace experiences.
  • Introducing the concept of intersectionality and how multiple identities can create unique experiences of privilege and disadvantage.
  • Examining the impact of privilege on workplace power dynamics.
  • Fostering awareness of your own privilege and how to use it to advocate for equity.
  • Creating space for diverse voices and experiences.

Module 4: Recognizing and Addressing Microaggressions

  • Defining microaggressions and understanding their subtle and often unintentional nature.
  • Identifying different types of microaggressions (e.g., microinsults, microinvalidations, microassaults).
  • Understanding the cumulative impact of microaggressions on individuals and workplace culture.
  • Developing strategies for recognizing and intervening when microaggressions occur.
  • Learning how to respond constructively if you have committed a microaggression.
  • Fostering a culture of respectful communication and allyship.

Module 5: Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Culture

  • Defining the characteristics of an inclusive workplace culture.
  • Exploring strategies for creating a sense of belonging and psychological safety for all employees.
  • Promoting inclusive language and communication practices.
  • Designing inclusive meetings and team activities.
  • Creating opportunities for diverse perspectives to be heard and valued.
  • Building empathy and understanding across different identity groups.

Module 6: Promoting Equitable Practices and Policies

  • Understanding the difference between equality and equity.
  • Examining workplace policies and practices through an equity lens (e.g., recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, development).
  • Identifying and addressing systemic barriers to equity.
  • Implementing strategies for fair and equitable decision-making processes.
  • Advocating for inclusive policies and practices within your organization.
  • Measuring and tracking progress towards a more equitable workplace.

For registration details, contact Us:

Email: admissions@sec.africa

WhatsApp: +267 71673370