Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/foundations-of-diversity-and-inclusion-at-work-teachout
The summer of 2020 undeniably shifted the global conversation around equity and race, bringing these critical issues to the forefront of societal and professional discourse. In the wake of this heightened awareness, many of us are asking: how can we cultivate more tolerant and just environments within our workplaces? While changing organizational culture is always a significant undertaking, the urgency and necessity of addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have never been greater. Coursera’s ‘Foundations of Diversity and Inclusion at Work TeachOut’ offers a timely and insightful exploration into these vital topics.
This teach-out, developed by six esteemed professors from The Darden School of Business, is designed to equip learners with the latest scholarship and practical strategies for fostering DEI. The course is structured into two key modules, each offering distinct yet complementary learning objectives.
The first module, ‘Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Organizations,’ delves into identifying and counteracting common challenges within the workplace. Through engaging discussions with leading scholars, participants gain a deeper understanding of how societal DEI issues manifest in organizational settings. A crucial takeaway is the insight that advancing DEI requires a thoughtful approach to how individuals are positioned within an organization, and how personal histories, particularly concerning race, influence our ability to contribute fully. This module also provides foundational knowledge for leading change initiatives within your organization.
Building on this foundation, the second module, ‘Taking Action to Create Change,’ focuses on practical application. Here, you’ll learn to construct a compelling business case for diversity and inclusion and develop the skills to implement it through constructive, even difficult, conversations. The course expertly guides learners in identifying systematic, individual, and institutional biases that hinder optimal organizational performance. More importantly, it equips you with strategies to address these biases calmly and productively. A significant emphasis is placed on leveraging differences within an organization and cultivating the essential ‘inner grit and grace’ needed for mindful leadership. This includes honing the skills for engaging in honest and skillful conversations about identity, pain, and power dynamics.
Overall, ‘Foundations of Diversity and Inclusion at Work TeachOut’ is a highly recommended course for anyone looking to understand and actively contribute to a more equitable and inclusive work environment. The expertise of the Darden professors, combined with the practical, action-oriented approach, makes this a valuable investment for individuals and organizations alike. It provides not just theoretical knowledge but also the tools to navigate complex conversations and drive meaningful change.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/foundations-of-diversity-and-inclusion-at-work-teachout