Diversity FAQ

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in higher education involves policies and practices that ensure fair treatment and full inclusion for all students and faculty, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. EDI aims to eliminate barriers and create environments where diverse perspectives are embraced and respected.

Common barriers include unconscious biases, systemic inequalities, lack of representation in curriculum and faculty, and financial limitations that disproportionately affect under-represented groups. Overcoming these barriers involves institutional changes, targeted support programmes, and a commitment to continuous assessment and improvement.

Universities often use metrics such as diversity in student and faculty demographics, retention rates of under-represented groups, inclusivity in course content, and campus climate surveys. Success is also measured by the integration of EDI principles into organisational policies and the effectiveness of outreach and support programmes.

Enhanced diversity enriches the educational experience by introducing a broader range of perspectives and fostering a more inclusive learning environment. This diversity encourages critical thinking, increases cultural awareness, and prepares students to operate in a globalised world, thus improving overall academic and social outcomes.

EDI can be integrated into the curriculum by incorporating diverse perspectives and sources, addressing historical biases, and including studies and literature from under-represented groups. Effective integration also involves training faculty on inclusive pedagogical techniques and continuously reviewing course content for inclusivity and relevance.

We collaborate by researching and developing innovative educational strategies that promote equality and diversity. This includes gathering data on the effectiveness of different teaching approaches and helping to implement inclusive practices throughout the curriculum.

We advance EDI by conducting empirical research that informs pedagogical practices and curriculum design. We also collaborate with industry and academic partners to promote diversity and inclusivity in the field of economics, both academically and professionally.

Our application of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) principles through Strategic Economic Scholarship is pivotal in decolonising the economics curriculum. We challenge Eurocentric norms and incorporate a wide array of global economic perspectives, enriching the curriculum and ensuring it reflects the diverse realities of the global economy. This approach not only broadens student understanding but also fosters an inclusive academic environment.

We are committed to enhancing EDI through three key annual events which serve as platforms for discussion, development, and dissemination of best practices. Beyond these events, we continually look to expand our collaborations and leverage our research to inform and refine our educational strategies. This ongoing effort helps us to sustain and broaden the impact of our EDI initiatives within and beyond the academic community.

Royal Economic Society: Watch out for publications (e.g. Women’s Committee Report and Who Studies Economics?) and Diversity Network events.

Office For Students: Equal Opportunities and Access, Success & Progress for Underrepresented Students

Bank of England: Review of Ethnic Diversity & Inclusion

CIPD: Race inclusion report: Equality of career progression (2021)

The Conversation: On Discrimination

Norwich Economic Podcast: UEA Economics to the Bank of England

Norwich Economic Publications: Diversity, Sustainability, Creativity and the Role of AI