Topic outline

  • Introduction

    Humans are a collection of identities that shape our perspective which influences our behaviors, actions and words.  The goal of Equity and Belonging University is to assist individuals in broadening the lens through which they see the world and interact with others; in turn when we all embrace diversity, equity and inclusion, we all flourish!


    • Individual Outcomes:

      • Demonstrate openness to new perspectives
      • Reassess one’s own personal perspective when appropriate
      • Recognize and critically reflect upon one’s own cultural and identity awareness


      Interpersonal Outcomes:

      • Seek points of connection and interact substantively with those who are different from oneself
      • Demonstrate communication skills that enable intercultural communication, including effective listening skills
      • Interact respectfully and appropriately in a variety of cultural contexts


      Institutional Outcomes:

      • Identify the power of diversity as a source for creativity, innovation and productive collaboration
      • Demonstrate professionalism by working inclusively and co-creating an environment where each perspective is considered for the cooperative purpose of making progress toward common goals
      • Enhance knowledge of key DEI concepts that promote inclusive settings


      Structural Outcomes:

      • In appropriate situations, consider that some of the norms and practices one espouses and treats as “universal” might be culturally dependent
      • Interrogate structures of power and institutions from the standpoint of cultural inheritance
      • Develop, maintain and adapt culturally responsive pedagogy, services, communications and practices
      • Examine challenges in incorporating DEI concepts in the context of an organization
    • The Lense of Systematic Oppression 


    • Blooms Taxonomy - Cognitive Domain


  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 101 Module

    • All of us know people that are different from us, whether they are family, friends, or coworkers. Diversity plays a huge role in who we are, and it exists in almost every aspect of our lives.

      We all enjoy the feeling of inclusion in group events. Thus, it is equally as important to make others feel that inclusivity as well. The feeling of inclusion can help bring us all together in a positive way.

      In this course, participants will learn more about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), why they are important, how culture and bias play a role in DEI, and how to identify individual and organizational characteristics and behaviors of DEI.

      After completing this course, you will be able to:

      • Demonstrate an understanding of diversity, equity and Inclusion

      • Identify characteristics of diversity, equity, and inclusion

      • Demonstrate an understanding of how diversity, equity, and inclusion can be implemented in daily life


  • Bias 101 Module

    • Over the past 5 years the term “bias” has been a hot topic in the world of diversity, equity and inclusion. While often referred to as a negative light the fact is that we all have biases. Therefore, bias is not inherently good or bad, however they can be a huge barrier to diversity, equity and inclusion when left unchecked. This course will introduce you to both types of bias and forms of bias. 

      By the end of this course, you will:

      • Be introduced to various forms of bias.
      • Become aware of different types of bias.
      • Provided the opportunity to identify strategies to challenge bias in your life.


  • Social Identity 101 Module

    • How do you see yourself in the world? When we are asked this question, we often cannot help but include our social identities. Can you describe what your dominant social identities are?  How do these identities affect how you present yourself to the world? These topics will be discussed in this course.

      By the end of this course, you will:

      • Gain an in-depth understanding of social identity and the seven dominant statuses.

      • Review and examine the impact social identities have on your behaviors, relationships, and decisions.

      • Explore mini-case scenario examples that will allow for self-reflection on your ability and willingness to embrace other’s identities.


  • Equity 101 Module

    • Diversity is the starting point, inclusion is the highway, and equity is the destination. However, there are barriers to equity, potholes along the way, that individuals and organizations must confront. While most people are aware of harmful acts such as hate speech, harassment, and violence, there are other small acts or micro-messages that have a great impact on equity.

      By the end of this course:

      • You will be able to define microaggressions and microaffirmations. 

      • Gain an understanding of strategies to address and eliminate micro-messages that can be a barrier to equity. 

      • Finally, you will have the opportunity to test your knowledge through various scenario-based exercises that explore microaggressions and microaffirmations in different settings.


  • Historical Context on Privilege Video

    • This brief video discusses privileges and prompts the question,  how does your leadership rely on privilege and dominance? How it is inclusive or uplifting of others?


  • Culture 201 Module

    • Do you know someone that is different from you? How about someone who is a different religion or from a different socio-economic class?

      All of us know people that differ from ourselves in one way or the other.

      By the end of this course, you will be able to demonstrate your understanding of effective communication strategies as well as assess your own level of cultural awareness to identify communication barriers and finally you will enhance your own level of cultural awareness to enable effective communication.


  • Preventing Sexual Misconduct: Understanding Your Role and Responsibilities Module

    • The intended purpose of this training is to provide all PPSD employees with the necessary knowledge to prevent sexual misconduct, as well as inform employees of their roles and responsibilities in reporting potential incidents of sexual misconduct, gender-based harassment, and sexual violence.

      The Providence School Board and PPSD re-affirms its commitment to providing an educational and work environment free from sex-based discrimination and harassment, including discrimination and/or harassment, on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, ethnicity, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal.