Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) has been engaging with the conversation on inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA) for over seven years. Through its dedicated IDEA Center, comprising over 20 specialists, EUR has played a pioneering role in developing and implementing institutional strategies for IDEA, sharing their knowledge and expertise throughout Europe. Recently, the IDEA Center hosted a series of events focusing on different aspects of IDEA, bringing together diverse participants from academia and the community. In this article, we will explore key takeaways from these events, highlighting the insights shared by experts and participants.
Promoting IDEA Through Rigorous Research
Dr. Helen Tibboel, a researcher in the field of IDEA, gave a presentation on the challenges and dilemmas of conducting research in this area. Her presentation highlighted the importance of rigorous research to inform and guide inclusive policies and practices.
One key takeaway from Helen's presentation is that "sometimes the most straightforward-looking research questions can be the most complex." This means that seemingly simple questions, such as whether there is a gender pay gap, can actually be quite complicated when taking into account factors such as job experience, education, and other demographics. As a result, it's crucial to approach IDEA research with a critical and nuanced lens.
Another takeaway from Helen's presentation is the need for a combination of different types of information to fully understand the complexities of IDEA research. For example, a lack of a visible difference in representation or pay between genders in a certain profession may not necessarily mean that there is no problem. Factors such as age and promotion rates can also play a significant role in determining disparities. It's important to keep asking questions and exploring multiple angles to gain a comprehensive understanding of IDEA issues.
Helen also highlighted the importance of conducting research with an open mind, free from biases and assumptions. She emphasised that research should not be driven by preconceived notions or agendas, but rather by a desire to uncover the truth.
The Importance of Inclusive Communication
Joris van den Ring-Bax, Communications advisor Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Access at EUR, reminded the participants of how (our) stories and images shape our perception of the world. According to Joris, "Inclusive communication is a clear and respectful way of communicating that ensures messages reach a diverse group of people and make them feel included." He emphasised the importance of inclusive language, visuals, and content to ensure that messages are accessible and reach diverse audiences. Joris also highlighted that "it's not about being right or wrong, but rather about using inclusive words and images, about preferrable ways of communicating, and about creating awareness."
Implicit bias was also discussed, referring to the automatic associations and reactions we have towards people based on stereotypes. As Joris pointed out, media makers and communications advisors have a significant influence on people's perceptions, and it is essential to be aware of implicit bias to create inclusive communication.
Joris also advised against using exclusionary language and encouraged the use of specific language when referring to different age groups. Tips for creating inclusive visuals were also shared, such as avoiding stereotypical representations and considering different disabilities. The challenge of including non-visible aspects of diversity, such as mental health, in imagery was acknowledged.
Joris encouraged the participants to strive to create a more inclusive community by being mindful of our language and imagery in all our communications.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Academia through Recognition and Rewards
With this workshop, EUR’s Recognition & Rewards (R&R) programme team aimed to highlight the connection between two important developments within academia. Namely, the programme R&R and the movement towards a more inclusive academia as both are about diversity, in terms of backgrounds and talents. R&R aims to modernise the current system for appreciating, recognising, and rewarding academic staff and thereby creating room for everyone's talents. As a result, it offers opportunities for a more diverse group of academics to flourish. At the same time, some challenges arise, for example a more qualitative assessment of academic qualities also leaves room for bias.
The workshop started with an introduction of the R&R programme in which we also touched upon a number of pain points connected to IDEA. The programme was interactive, with audience participation via Mentimeter questions and brainstorming sessions.
The two brainstorming sessions formed the core of the workshop, first looking at challenges within R&R in the context of IDEA and then coming up with possible solutions to these. Some of the challenges that the workshop audience thought about were creating safe spaces for discussion on this complex topic, inclusivity towards the support staff, and the risk of certain groups ending up in a particular career path. Possible solutions were found in organising dialogue sessions with diverse groups, incorporating inclusive leadership, and reshaping the funding structures.
The participants experienced this workshop as an inspiring session because it allowed them to reflect on important R&R and IDEA developments within academia. For several participants from the private sector, it was a refreshing look at challenges they are facing as well. For the organisers it was valuable because it gave us diverse perspectives on difficult dilemmas that need attention in the R&R programme in relation to IDEA.
Fostering Equity in Higher Education Through City Engagement & Outreach
Rajiv Mahadew, EUR’s City Engagement Officer Outreach, highlighted the significance of city engagement and how campus tours and other outreach activities can provide access and opportunities to diverse groups and improve equity in higher education. The workshop stressed the importance of engaging with historically underrepresented groups and connecting with local communities to achieve positive outcomes. As Rajiv stated, "Engaging with community members is crucial for effective city engagement and positive community outcomes."
Participants in the workshop discussed various challenges when engaging with underrepresented communities, such as language barriers and lack of access to information, and explored ways to overcome them. They suggested using social media to reach a wider audience and providing translation services to overcome language barriers.
Conclusion
Erasmus University Rotterdam's IDEA International Knowledge Week brought together experts and participants to discuss IDEA topics. Common themes emerged, emphasising the importance of rigorous research, inclusive communication, recognition and rewards programs, and city engagement and outreach. Rigorous research was deemed crucial to inform policies and practices, requiring a nuanced approach. Inclusive communication stressed the use of language and visuals that reach diverse audiences and avoid implicit biases. Recognition and rewards programs were highlighted for motivating employees through tailored and transparent initiatives. City engagement and outreach were emphasised to improve equity in higher education by engaging with underrepresented communities. These themes showcase the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and inspiring others to do the same.
Erasmus University Rotterdam wants to become a more attractive place to work for both current and future academic staff, with the aim of bringing out the best in everyone. We also want to develop into an impact-driven university in the coming years. Through the Recognition & Rewards programme, our university is working on achieving these ambitions and modernising its system for recognising and rewarding academic staff to stimulate an environment where more diverse academic talents and ambitions are valued and appreciated equally.
The Recognition & Rewards programme team can be reached at recognitionandrewards@eur.nl