Applying Atomic Habits to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Teaching

By IEEE Computer Society Team on

July 24, 2023

Atomic Habits Teaching Circle Implementing a multi-part, interactive syllabus to create a feedback loop and stronger connections with students

Developing a set of annotated sample lesson plans that illustrate the techniques and processes required to develop more inclusive course materials

Identifying historical case studies that introduce more African American inventors, female computer scientists, LGBTQ+ figures, and other under-represented groups into lectures

“By focusing on the value of persistent and incremental change, all of our participants were empowered to make at least one change to their course practices and/or syllabus,” said Horton. “Even more importantly, from our perspective, they seemed to want to continue the process of incremental change after the end of the grant workshops. We had universal agreement from the participants that they wanted to continue participating in similar workshops.”

Having seen the initial enthusiasm and impact of this first mentoring circle, the school’s leadership plans to invest in future such workshops and sessions, extending the grant’s outcomes and supporting D&I growth at their institution. In short, the IEEE CS D&I Fund grant has led to an expanded focus on ways small shifts can lead to big, inclusive impacts.

“The Atomic Habits approach was a useful framework,” summed up Horton. “We are interested in continuing these conversations and plan to encourage some of the previous participants to take the lead on conversations based on their experiences and interests.”

For more information on IEEE CS’ D&I Fund, currently funded proposals, funding opportunities, and to donate, visit the IEEE CS Diversity and Inclusion Fund.