Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices: Student and Educator Perspectives

Abstract

Background: Diversity, equity, and inclusion is a term that has gained popularity within the last few years, especially as the profession declares its commitment to such initiatives. Current educational standards do not require educators or OT programs to include DEI within their curriculum. Creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive profession must begin with teaching practices. Healthcare needs are rapidly changing and require diverse health professionals; however, many healthcare fields cannot keep up with the rapid demand for diversity, let alone feel comfortable providing care for clients of diverse backgrounds. DEI practices are needed within OT education, and this need is proven through the perspectives of students and educators.

Purpose: The primary purpose of this project is to provide an outlet for students and educators to voice their opinions, specifically as it relates to DEI practices within OT education. This project seeks to describe similarities and differences found through interviews with students and educators to recognize current DEI practices with a specific OT program, make informed recommendations centered on DEI best practices and provide campus and community resources.

Theoretical Framework: This project utilizes Critical Race Theory (CRT) and inclusive pedagogy to explain current inequities that are inclined to marginalize students. It also offers solutions to help counteract stigmas and provide an equitable and inclusive learning experience for all students.

Methods: The project was implemented through three main phases. First, second-and third-year faculty were recruited to take a survey answering questions about current DEI practices within their program. Secondly, students and faculty were asked to participate in respective focus groups to further elaborate on common themes found within survey responses. Lastly, key findings from the survey and focus group responses were used to develop a specialized guide of resources to support students and educators in increasing knowledge and ability to educate others about DEI.

Results: This project was measured through the common themes from survey and interview questions. These primary themes informed the creation of a specific resource manual to demonstrate the importance of integrating DEI into the curriculum by evaluating the program and teaching practices, examples, educational resources, and opportunities to engage within the local community.

Conclusion: By analyzing current educational standards and the insight of student and educator perspectives, this project determined and developed a client-centered manual to guide all stakeholders within an OTD program with the necessary tools to integrate DEI into the curriculum best.