Course Description
In a world where Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging are at the forefront of many companies' minds, we often wonder where we fit into the equation. The topic of DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) can often seem scary and too large to unpack. I hear you. Not being in the know can be uncomfortable, so let’s switch our mindset from worrying about offending to being open to feedback and change when we make a mistake.
In this course, we’ll unpack a brief overview of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging and where we can continue learning more in this ever-evolving space. Then, we’ll dive deep into our biases to understand better where we’ll need to double-check our thinking or approach. Next, we will move into understanding how to create space for everyone, focusing on inclusive language. Lastly, we’ll learn how to set up and advocate for ERG (employee resource groups) that continue driving innovation through diversity.
In this course, we’ll unpack a brief overview of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging and where we can continue learning more in this ever-evolving space. Then, we’ll dive deep into our biases to understand better where we’ll need to double-check our thinking or approach. Next, we will move into understanding how to create space for everyone, focusing on inclusive language. Lastly, we’ll learn how to set up and advocate for ERG (employee resource groups) that continue driving innovation through diversity.
Learning Objectives:
What is Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging - A 30,000 ft overview of what DEIB is, why it’s such a hot topic, and how you can help impact
Breaking Down Bias - Bias, we all have them! It's the first idea that pops into our head, but it doesn't have to be our final thought.
Create the Space - Creating an environment where everyone can thrive sounds like difficult work, but not when you work as a team.
- Advocating for ERG’s in the Workplace - Need help finding the space? Create it! This lesson will be jam-packed with information on creating workplace space for employees through Employee Resource Groups.
What You'll Leave With:
The ability to define the importance of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in the workplace
Identify and understand your biases and your action plan to keep yourself accountable
How to create inclusive spaces through language, representation, and community
Lastly, learn the basics of how to advocate for Employee Resource Groups
How it Works:
Each week, you will watch a series of videos that cover key course concepts and guide you through your own reflection. You will receive a PDF workbook that you can download and print to complete activities and capture your takeaways.
During the course, you will try on new mindsets, work through reflective exercises that help you apply those mindsets to your specific career path, and engage with your peers.
We will also have a private Linkedin discussion forum where you can engage with the broader community in the Entrepreneurship 101 Course, ask questions, and share resources.
This course is offered in partnership with more than a dozen alumni offices. Alumni from partner schools will also participate in the LinkedIn Discussion Group allowing for increased networking and more diverse perspectives.
Each week you will:
- Engage with course videos
- Complete reflective exercises in weekly workbooks
- Track your progress
- Capture key takeaways and action steps
Course curriculum
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1
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Being a Pillar of Support Allyship @ Work
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2
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Pre-Read: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB): A 2023 Overview
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What is Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging?
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Why is recognizing DEIB efforts in the workspace essential?
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How diversity creates innovation
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Week 1 Workbook
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3
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Recap!
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What is Bias, and how might it show up?
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Self-awareness Success
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Checking Bias and Creating Belonging
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4
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Week 3 Workbook
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It’s what you say and how you say it
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How to create space on a peer-to-peer level
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Authenticity in the Workplace
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5
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Reading Recap
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What's an ERG?
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How to advocate for an ERG?
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What it means to be an Ally
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Our Facilitator - Pat Foley
founder of Foley & Associates Consulting, has over 10 years of experience in HR, Learning and Development, and DEIB. They started in the DEIB space while completing their Bachelor's at Arizona State University. As a Queer activist, non-profit program manager, and coach, Pat knew creating inclusive spaces created happier employees and more mindful business policies. After working in the non-profit space by educating private businesses on the importance of LGBTQ+ representation and inclusive business practices, Pat left the non-profit world and moved into the Financial Technology space, where he helped Opendoor scale their inclusive business practices and establish the first ERG, Pride. Patrick has recently completed the University of South Florida’s DEIB in the Workplace program through the Muma College of Business.
After establishing Opendoor’s Pride ERG, Pat worked directly on curating the DEIB experience at Opendoor, a prominent digital-first real estate platform boasting a global workforce of 3,000 employees. While there, Pat contributed as a liaison between employee needs and surfaced via ERGs to integrate updates into People and Business Policies. Pat continued his DEIB efforts intertwined into the company's learning culture for 7 years before leaving Opendoor to pursue expanding his impact via Foley & Associates.
After establishing Opendoor’s Pride ERG, Pat worked directly on curating the DEIB experience at Opendoor, a prominent digital-first real estate platform boasting a global workforce of 3,000 employees. While there, Pat contributed as a liaison between employee needs and surfaced via ERGs to integrate updates into People and Business Policies. Pat continued his DEIB efforts intertwined into the company's learning culture for 7 years before leaving Opendoor to pursue expanding his impact via Foley & Associates.
FAQ
How do I register for this course?
Registration can be made by clicking the register link above. Registration must be completed online and a separate online submission is required for each participating alumni.
What is the cost for the course?
There is no cost with the course.
What resources will I need for this class?
To complete this course you'll need an internet connection, and the time to read, watch recorded lectures, and participate in online discussions.
Do I have to be a University of Alberta alum to participate in this course?
No, this course is available for University of Alberta and friends of the university.
When does the class meet?
The course site opens to participants on January 16, 2023, but when you "attend" class is entirely up to you. Our online course is without set class meetings. Instead, "class" is really the collection of video lectures that are available on-demand. Each week a new section of the course will be posted, and you can watch that content. However, you can always go back and review the previous content. After you've studied the readings and watched the video lectures, you'll head over to the course forums to respond to the weekly discussion questions and interact with the professor, teaching assistants, and your classmates.
Where will the discussion with other alumni happen?
There will be a LinkedIn group provided to you that will house all the discussion about course content. You'll be able to interact with other alumni from University of Alberta and other universities whose alumni are also taking the course.
Can I earn credit for completing the course?
Course credit is not offered. Those participants who fulfill the requirement of posting answers to the required discussion questions will be e-mailed a certificate following the conclusion of the course.
What if my question isn't answered here?
If you have further questions, please email [email protected]