As the University community continues to be guided by President Frenk’s 15 University actions in pursuit of racial justice, staff members are encouraged to take part in two online trainings to build upon and support a culture of belonging. The two online courses—”Managing Bias” and “Diversity: Inclusion in the Modern Workplace”—are available through ULearn and provide insight on how various issues can impact diversity and inclusion at work.
To help employees get started, Life@TheU asked experts from the Human Resources’ Office of Workplace Equity and Inclusion to share details on why each session is important to your role as a ’Cane. Learn more about the differences between the courses and the next steps after completion.
What are the differences between the two courses?
“Managing Bias” is a one-hour course designed to define bias and how it affects the workplace. The training encourages learners to apply knowledge of bias to reduce negative effects, and it introduces tactics for handling acts of bias among colleagues.
“Diversity: Inclusion in the Modern Workplace” is a 90-minute course that provides a holistic approach to thinking about and creating a respectful working environment where everyone has the opportunity to add value and feel valued.
Do staff members need any prior knowledge before completing either training?
No prerequisites are required. Both courses are intended to provide a foundation to grow staff members’ understanding of their role in creating a better, more diverse workplace for everyone. The courses can be easily accessed through ULearn transcript and can be completed in any order.
What are the next steps?
After successfully completing both courses in ULearn, employees will have the opportunity to participate in additional facilitator-led discussions and small group dialogues. These sessions will dive deeper into many of the topics covered in the courses and will provide staff members with the ability to enhance their skills to support the University’s culture of belonging through shared experiences and perspectives.
Additionally, employees are encouraged to participate in other diversity and inclusion programming available throughout the University—including Employee Resource Groups, which are open to all employees. Learn more about the University’s Employee Resource Groups.
How can I talk about diversity and inclusion with my colleagues?
Open conversations help create an atmosphere that encourages diverse perspectives and communication styles. Here are tips to keep in mind during the next conversation with a colleague:
- Eliminate distractions.
- Solicit a variety of perspectives. Make sure everyone has a chance to contribute.
- Seek to understand. Ask questions that are neutral and encourage dialogue.
- Manage your emotions so they serve the conversation and resist defensiveness.
- Treat yourself and others with compassion. We all make mistakes and the key to evolving is to learn from our missteps and not repeat them.
Where can I report bias or discrimination?
If you have experienced or witnessed acts of discrimination, use the following link to help you find the appropriate office and contact information. Visit hr.miami.edu/report-discrimination.
Who do I contact with questions regarding Managing Bias and Diversity: Inclusion in the Modern Workplace courses?
Click here to read all frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the online training courses. For additional questions regarding these offerings, contact the Human Resources’ Office of Workplace Equity and Inclusion at wei@miami.edu.
If you are experiencing technical issues, contact EVERFI Tech Support by using the “Help” feature within the course or by visiting support.everfi.com. EVERFI support hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.
