Breaking Ivory Walls in Higher Education: Embracing Diversity and Creating Belonging
Fecha: noviembre 2024
Stefania Paredes Fuentes
Diversity, inclusion, belonging, higher education, assessment, learning environments
Beyond Ivory Tower. Navigating Higher Education in the Future
This chapter examines the persistent challenges to diversity and inclusion within universities. It argues that dismantling remaining “ivory walls” at universities necessitates fostering a culture of belonging that actively addresses social inequalities and empowers under-represented groups. The chapter explores how academics can contribute to this transformation. It offers practical strategies for creating inclusive communities through individual behaviours, and teaching practices. Additionally explains how universities can update their processes to support these changes. By emphasising both individual and systemic efforts, the chapter provides a starting point for building more equitable and inclusive academic environment. This, in turn, strengthens universities’ ability to serve as true drivers of positive social change. However, this is contingent upon the engagement of the university leadership and the allocation of adequate resources.