Rose Turner, Coordinator of Liaison Services, rlt@pitt.edu
The content of your curriculum (presentations, case studies, syllabus readings, examples, etc) sets expectations as to what is the “norm” in your field.
Are you perpetuating stereotypes?
Are you influencing who your science is "for"?
We want to increase the diversity of voices we cite so that we can:
• Widen the breadth of perspectives
• Increase the visibility of authors from diverse backgrounds
• Increase student engagement
• Counter bias
• What is the demographic profile of authors on the syllabus?
• What is the effect of this on the diversity of views with which the students are presented?
• What is the effect of this on student engagement?
• Is the profile of authors acknowledged and examined as part of the learning aims and outcomes of the syllabus?
Consult a wider range of journals or textbooks for source materials.
Remember that databases other than PubMed exist. Due to publication bias, the databases and journals you consult may be more likely to publish studies from higher income countries.
Read articles about pedagogy in your field which speak to questions of diversity, equity, justice and inclusion.
Search for your topic +
Researchers often use computer programs or prediction algorithms. Use your own judgement as to whether these methods could be helpful for your project or harmful. Always evaluate your results and reflect on your own bias, in addition to whatever assumptions your program is using.