In AY2020-21, all sections of UK 101/201 implemented updated Unconscious Bias (UB) content. This content introduced the following terms/concepts, among others:
- Unconscious/conscious bias
- Microaggressions
- Land acknowledgements
- Ally, accomplice, co-conspirator
These updated instructional materials sought to minimize the use of stereotyped images, situate the content more directly with student concerns (for relevancy), broaden the understanding of DEI to include reconciliation with native peoples and expand understanding of bias beyond the unconscious to consider deliberate acts of discrimination.
Project 6 created an intentional and ongoing partnership between the leadership of UK 101 and the office of Inclusive Excellence and Diversity Education, which leads the Unconscious Bias (Ross, 2014) Initiative at the institution.
In AY2020-21, two (10%) of the 20 UK 101/201 class sessions were dedicated to content on unconscious bias. Instructors were required to attend robust training as preparation for teaching these lessons. Instructors were also provided with the opportunity to connect directly with the staff members in the office of Inclusive Excellence and Diversity Education to better prepare to teach these lessons.
The Fall 2020 semester also included a dedicated section of UK 101 for students participating in the Audre Lorde Living Learning Communication. The Audre Lorde Social Justice Community, led by the Office of LGBTQ* Resources, offers students the opportunity to develop their understanding of and advocacy for intersecting identities, such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity through a social justice lens.
Next Steps
UK 101 is a key avenue for supporting institutional diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts.
UK 101 leadership will continue to work with the Office for Institutional Diversity (OID) and Inclusive Excellence and Diversity Education (IEDE) to provide curriculum support and instructor training for Unconscious Bias material (mentioned previously). Further, we plan to coordinate efforts with other key first-year experience offices such as Residential Life, Big Blue Nation Orientation (UK’s student organization and academic orientation program) and K-Week (welcome activities and events offered each semester by the office of Student Transitions and Family Programs) to develop a consistent introduction of key terms and concepts related to equity and inclusion.
UK 101/201 developed new leadership positions in Spring 2021 to better mentor instructors. The Coordinator of UK 101/201 collaborated with staff from IEDE in the review of applicants for these positions. The selection of these new leaders was guided by recommendations from IEDE. Once hired, these eight selected leaders received additional training opportunities with IEDE to better support instructors teaching the Unconscious Bias lessons.