INCLUSIVE CIRCLES OF CONVERSATION: IMPLEMENTING AN INNOVATIVE DIVERSITY PROGRAM AMONG ENGINEERING FACULTY AND STAFF

摘要

The field of engineering will benefit from increased attention to diversity and inclusion, starting with faculty and staff in colleges of engineering. The theoretical underpinnings from learning communities, intergroup dialogues, and empathy and emotional processing were used to create a framework for a diversity and inclusion program, Inclusive Circles of Conversation (ICOC). The goal of this program is for engineering faculty and staff to work toward (a) improving attitudes toward addressing bias, (b) increasing diversity-related knowledge and awareness, and (c) changing behaviors (e.g., reducing the impact of their implicit biases, actively working against biases, and implementing inclusive practices) for a more welcoming climate for colleagues and students with marginalized identities. After reviewing the literature, theory, and framework, the authors provide a case example of the ICOC, as demonstrated at one university's college of engineering. The authors present observed themes from the program and a guide for others to develop such programs. Implications, future directions, and potential limitations are discussed.