Developing and Implementing a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Curriculum Self-reflection Process at a School of...

Area of Science:

• Public Health Education
• Curriculum Development
• Higher Education Pedagogy

Background:

• Implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in academic settings presents unique challenges.
• Self-reflection projects are crucial for evaluating and enhancing curricula to align with DEI principles.
• Existing tools and knowledge may not fully address the specific needs of higher education institutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the motivations, processes, and implementation of a faculty-driven DEI curriculum self-reflection project.
• To offer guidance and a flexible framework for developing and implementing DEI curriculum self-assessments.
• To assist academic units in systematically integrating DEI into their courses and curricula.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach was used at the Rutgers School of Public Health.
• The study involved a faculty-driven curriculum self-reflection project.
• A 6-step framework was developed based on faculty experience, student and staff input, and existing knowledge.

Main Results:

• A flexible 6-step framework for DEI curriculum self-assessment was developed.
• The framework includes guiding principles and strategic approaches for planning, development, and implementation.
• Lessons were identified for integrating DEI assessment systematically and iteratively within academic units.

Conclusions:

• The developed framework provides practical guidance for public health schools and other academic settings.
• The approach addresses contextual challenges in curriculum reform and DEI integration.
• Systematic and iterative assessment is key to successfully embedding DEI into educational curricula.