Exploring Inclusion by Creating Inclusion: A World Café Among Nurse Scientists

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Qualitative Methods
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Background:

• The concept of inclusion within diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) lacks exploration in nursing research.
• A World Café methodology has not been previously utilized to study inclusion in nursing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the process and experiences of nurse scientists hosting a World Café on inclusion.
• To share participant insights on inclusion in nursing.
• To offer actionable considerations for advancing inclusion in nursing.

Main Methods:

• A 90-minute World Café event was conducted at the Midwestern Nursing Research Society Annual Research Conference.
• Forty participants engaged in iterative small group dialogues across seven inclusion topics.
• Table hosts facilitated discussions, and participants shared insights verbally and creatively.

Main Results:

• Participants identified that inclusion involves connecting as human beings, creating welcoming spaces, openness, and active listening.
• The World Café process was described by hosts as engaging, invoking, and inspiring.
• The methodology facilitated diverse perspectives and generated insights on nursing inclusion.

Conclusions:

• The World Café provided a unique and inclusive platform for exploring inclusion in nursing.
• Tangible behaviors to promote inclusion across nursing contexts were identified.
• Further research utilizing creative and participatory methods is warranted to advance DEI in nursing.