Presentation Schedule
Harnessing the Power of Diversity in Higher Education (97895)
Session Chair: Lubna Siddiqi
Thursday, 2 October 2025 15:45
Session: Session 2
Room: (B1) Eixample
Presentation Type:Oral Presentation
In this presentation, we will describe an empirically derived practice approach designed to honor and engage diversity in higher education. Utilizing a grounded theory analysis, this approach was generated from interviews and focus groups. This practice approach involves five phases including: (1) the initial presumptive stance of the worker (presumption of diversity, curiosity, reflexivity, critical self-reflection, trust in the group); (2) recognition and acknowledgement of diversity; (3) invitation of dialogue and shifting focus (from social identity to personal experiences); (4) validation, acceptance and negotiation of norms; and, (5) exploration of impact on students in the classroom and transfer to community. We will observe how power is inextricably linked to the expression of various forms of diversity and describe how particular diversity-related issues that emerge in a classroom often shifts in salience over time. We will also introduce critical realism and empowerment theory as theoretical foundations that inform for our approach to working with diversity and knowledge generation. This practice approach to engaging diversity in higher education serves to engage and empower marginalized voices, promote open dialogue and nurture student learning.
Authors:
William James Pelech, University of Calgary, Canada
Roshini Pillay, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
David Nicholas, University of Calgary, Canada
Melissa Popiel, Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada
David Este, University of Calgary, Canada
Sarah LaRocque, University of Calgary, Canada
About the Presenter(s)
Dr William James Pelech is currently at University of Calgary in Canada
See this presentation on the full schedule – Thursday Schedule
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