Equality & Diversity in the Life Sciences

Veitch, N. , Szaboova, A., Paterson, V. and White, S. (2021) Equality & Diversity in the Life Sciences. Biochemical Society Evolving Molecular Biosciences, 28 May 2021.

Abstract

The Equality and Diversity (E+D) project conducted at the School of Life Sciences was created to embed the values of E+D into an undergraduate course and to raise awareness of issues in academic environments and future careers. The resource was created by six student interns and three staff members and integrated to make the curriculum more inclusive and empowering for 1000 participating students. It was built around the protected characteristics embedded in the Equality Act, 2010. This resource introduced students to issues and difficulties that students might face in relation to E+D, through a series of problem-based learning tutorials and supporting digital content. The aims of the study material were to support the development of critical consciousness and thinking in students by encouraging discussion on current E+D topics. By introducing the stories of students and professionals from ethnic backgrounds, we hope to inspire students to be more empathetic and to overcome barriers they might face throughout their careers. Furthermore, we aim to equip all students with strategies to tackle any arising challenges they may face. Students completed pre and post questionnaires providing detailed feedback of their experiences which we will link into best practice in embedding E+D issues. As part of this project, a downloadable app was created to allow the learning resource to be disseminated widely to other practitioners across all subjects.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item
• Keywords: Equality and diversity, problem based learning.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Paterson, Dr Victoria and Veitch, Dr Nicola and White, Dr Stewart
• Authors: Veitch, N., Szaboova, A., Paterson, V., and White, S.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Life Sciences; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity