The Impact of Exposure to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Education

Abstract

This review examines the impact of implementation of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) content within higher education. EDI is a powerful strategy to acknowledge self-awareness and identify strong biases that are currently present in our education and employment. This research focuses on the effect of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion on students both in and beyond the classroom. Previous research has shown that EDI has been ineffective due to the adoption of information deficit model approaches which work to solely educate the audience through a yearly training course. In contrast, utilizing alternative methods such as those that employ interactive discussions, mandated programs, and projects allow students to acquire a new perspective. To measure whether EDI is truly effective, the use of pre- and post-surveys would provide researchers with evidence of success. With an in-depth understanding of its positive impact on students, we can also expect that there will be an association between EDI and future places of employment. Using these expected findings, we can ensure that incorporating EDI curriculum goes beyond the social work department and incorporated in other majors. The future of this study creates potential for a positive change on educational environments such as the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.