Empowering Education: Embracing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at USask

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) are fundamental principles that shape the educational landscape at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). EDI in teaching and learning involves creating an environment where all students, regardless of their backgrounds, feel valued, respected, and supported. This approach not only enhances the learning experience but also promotes a culture of belonging and mutual respect.

 

Equity refers to providing each individual with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, recognizing that different people have different needs. This might involve offering additional support to students from underrepresented groups or ensuring that course materials are accessible to all students.

Diversity encompasses the range of human differences, such as worldviews, ways of knowing, talents, skills, backgrounds, gender, age, sexual orientation, and disability. At USask, diversity is celebrated by incorporating diverse perspectives and voices into the curriculum, ensuring that all students see themselves reflected in their studies.

Inclusion is the practice of creating a welcoming environment where all individuals feel they belong. Inclusion involves not only addressing and removing barriers to participation but also fostering an atmosphere where diverse perspectives are heard and valued.

At USask, EDI is defined through a comprehensive framework for action that emphasizes the importance of these principles in all aspects of university life. The University's EDI Policy outlines its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and includes the concept of manācihitowin, a Cree/Michif phrase meaning "let us respect each other." The policy aims to create a university where everyone feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to reach their desired potential.

By embedding EDI into teaching and learning, USask not only enhances the educational experience but also prepares students to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world. This commitment to EDI helps to ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society. 

References

• Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, USask
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Teaching Strategy, USask
• Equity Diversity and Inclusion Plan - University Plan 2025

-----

This article introduces and is the first of our EDI series which shares information, resources, and tools to support integrating EDI into your teaching and learning practices and your classroom.

The next article reviews USask’s EDI Framework for Action and offers practical approaches to help foster a diverse, supportive, and accessible educational experience for all students and educators.

Fostering Inclusive Learning Environments at USask: The EDI Framework for Action

---

^{Title image credit: USask Flickr}

This resource is shared by the Gwenna Moss Centre for Teaching and Learning (GMCTL), University of Saskatchewan, under a CC BY-NC-SA license.