Why should we support diversity and inclusion in STEM fields? Within the STEM context, diversity refers to differences related to social identity, such as race and ethnicity, gender, nationality, disability status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, and class background.
In this post, we discuss the benefits of cultivating diverse talent and promoting inclusion across the social spectrum, and the role that RDEISE plays in facilitating equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDIB) in STEM.
Scientific investigations and research priorities are shaped by the people engaging in STEM. And, frequently, an individual’s social identity shapes their research focus. This informs the types of questions that are or are not asked, the way that data is analyzed, and how these findings are applied.
Having a more diverse STEM workforce ensures that a diversity of perspectives are reflected in scientific investigations. For example, biological anthropologist Dr. Tina Lasisi, who also consults on research and content development for RDEISE, is conducting pioneering research into the evolution and classification of human hair. According to Science News, Dr. Lasisi, who is a Black woman, was inspired to research the evolutionary origins of hair variation in part by a desire to understand her own curly hair.
Studies have shown that more diverse teams and organizations can more easily and efficiently solve problems than groups that are homogenous. This means that diversity is a critical component to fostering creativity and innovation in STEM.
Individuals from different backgrounds and cultures, ultimately, see the world in varying ways. Diversity in thought and perspective allows groups and organizations to view and address problems differently and develop more creative solutions.
Today, most children born in the United States are people of color, and half of all children are assigned female at birth. If STEM continues to exclude people based on race, ethnicity, and gender, this will result in the reduced cultivation of STEM talent and a significant shortage in the STEM workforce. This, in turn, will have ramifications for the country given the inextricable link between scientific advancement and economic growth.
STEM plays a critical role in shaping the world we live in—from the technologies we use on a day to day basis (like computers or cellphones) to the therapeutics used to save people’s lives. Cultivating a diverse workforce is critical to continuing to advance the scientific enterprise.
The Racial Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Science Education (RDEISE) project aims to further diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM by providing high-quality, inclusive science education resources that increase students’ sense of belonging, identity, and success in science. Our hope is that this will encourage and inspire students of color to pursue degrees and careers in STEM, bolstering equity and diverse leadership.
Our forthcoming learning pathway “Advancing Equity in STEM Through Inclusive Teaching” is designed to help educators enhance their skills, supporting professional development for educators and leaders, particularly in STEM fields. We cover topics such as how to build inclusive teaching activities into lessons, engaging student communities, and how educators can support diversity in their workplace.
RDEISE resources aim to ensure that all students can succeed in their classrooms, regardless of their background. Consider signing our equity pledge to show your commitment to removing barriers to success in science for all!
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