Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/leading-for-equity-diversity-inclusion

Introduction

### Course Review: Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education --- #### Overview The course **"Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education"** on Coursera is an invaluable resource for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills within the context of a rapidly evolving demographic landscape. It targets educators, administrators, and leaders who aspire to advocate for inclusive practices and foster environments conducive to diversity. As the landscape of higher education continues to transform, understanding and addressing the complexities of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) becomes essential for effective leadership. While many skeptics question the teachability of leadership, this course embraces a different perspective. It asserts that foundational leadership qualities, while partially inherent, can indeed be nurtured through education and experience—making this course relevant and practical for aspiring leaders. #### Course Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Leadership Challenges of the 21st Century** - This module delves into the historical context of higher education and its evolving mission. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on the implications of this history concerning equity, diversity, and inclusion. By examining how historical narratives shape modern campus dynamics, leaders can better navigate challenges in student admissions and campus culture. 2. **Bias of Consciousness** - Here, learners explore the legacies of exclusion that have shaped higher education institutions. Focused on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Women's Colleges, and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), this module provides insight into how these organizations contribute to equity and the critical role they play in the bigger picture of social justice within academia. 3. **Contested Discourse** - This module provides learners with tools to understand social movements and contested discourse on campus. By studying contemporary issues faced by students and the activism that often follows, participants will explore how to foster a campus environment that acknowledges and addresses these social inequities. 4. **Strategic Diversity Planning** - Although brief in detail, this module promises to equip leaders with the frameworks necessary to develop and implement strategic plans for diversity. It underscores the importance of proactive measures in creating inclusive environments and will likely cover best practices for fostering diversity at institutional levels. 5. **Rethinking Leaders, Leadership, and Leadership Development** - This module likely challenges traditional paradigms of leadership. By exploring contemporary leadership philosophies and methods of development, learners can redefine what it means to be an effective and inclusive leader in today’s higher education environment. #### Recommendations **"Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education"** is highly recommended for: - **Higher Education Professionals**: Administrators, faculty members, and stakeholders seeking to better understand the dynamics of EDI in their institutions. - **Aspiring Leaders**: Individuals interested in developing a nuanced understanding of leadership that prioritizes inclusivity and equity. - **Change Agents**: Those looking to challenge the status quo within their organizations and promote policies that enhance diversity and inclusion. This course not only equips participants with theoretical knowledge but also offers practical applications and insights that can be directly implemented in the workplace. The collaborative discussions and case studies help reinforce learning and provide an interactive learning experience. Participating in this course will enable you to engage constructively with your community, advocate for underrepresented groups, and lead with a renewed sense of responsibility toward fostering an inclusive educational environment. In conclusion, if you're dedicated to becoming a transformational leader in the ever-evolving sphere of higher education, consider enrolling in this course. It promises to be a worthwhile investment in not just your career, but also the landscape of your educational institution.

Syllabus

Leadership Challenges of the 21st Century

The system of higher education has grown from a complex history and evolving mission to serve the public good. Higher education leaders and administrators should reflect upon and consider this history and its implications for equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts on campus. This module will help you to recognize historical narratives and present day consequences on campus, from the way students are admitted to the buildings on campus.

Higher education institutions have been shaped through a history of exclusion. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Women's Colleges, and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) are a few examples of these institutions. This module will help you to understand the various structures, schools, and organizations that have developed as a result of historical exclusion and the role each plays in equity, diversity, and inclusion on campuses across the United States.

Social discourse is intertwined with modern issues faced by students on campus. Student movements develop in response to contested discourse and seek to change not only tensions on campus, but address social inequities as well. This module will provide background on contested discourse as well as highlight several student movements addressing contemporary campus issues.