Understanding Inclusion: An Empirical Approach.
Abstract
Diversity and inclusion as a topic of concern is getting increased attention. Much of the focus, however, has been on the 'diversity' aspect and relatively little on the 'inclusion' aspect. The two parts are necessary complements. Inclusion can be thought of as the operationalization of diversity. Conceptually, inclusion is founded on notions of social cohesion and is broadly defined as 'the act of being included in a group or structure'. Specifically, social inclusion is defined as "access", "participation", "success", and the realization of human potential (Gidley et al. 2010). These elements are relatively recognizable and generally achievable. However, the act of creating access and participation of diverse peoples and cultures into a group or structure does not necessarily guarantee group success. Fundamentally social inclusion is about bringing together diversity. However, cohesion, on one end of the spectrum, risks homogenizing diversity through unification or assimilation of ideas, norms, and knowledge toward the majority and can limit the full potential of the group. A deeper understanding of what inclusion means may yield greater insight into how we act in bringing together diversity towards realizing the full extent of human potential and expanded potential for the group itself. Through an empirical approach I examine the meaning of "inclusion". Results indicate two primary themes of 'culture' and 'action'. Drawing from this analysis I provide insight via a conceptual model into how we might exercise inclusion when we have diversity, with the aim of achieving greater individual and group success.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2018
- Bibcode:
- 2018AGUFMED13C0761B
- Keywords:
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- 0810 Post-secondary education;
- EDUCATIONDE: 0850 Geoscience education research;
- EDUCATIONDE: 0855 Diversity;
- EDUCATIONDE: 6630 Workforce;
- PUBLIC ISSUES