Journal of Clinical and Translational Science (Apr 2022)

178 Promoting Diversity and Inclusion through the Black Voices in Research Storytelling Curriculum: Instructional Design and Pilot Implementation

  • Yulia A. Levites Strekalova,
  • H. Robert Kolb,
  • Patricia Xirau-Probert,
  • Tiffany Pineda

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1017/cts.2022.84
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6
pp. 22 – 23

Abstract

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OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Last year, we reported on storytelling events highlighting the experiences of Black biomedical professionals. The goal of this continuation study was to put Black Voices into action through a companion curriculum, instructional materials, and facilitated meaningful discussions around racial justice. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We developed instructional materials and pilot-implemented the curriculum in a 250-student Healthcare Leadership class. Prior to viewing the video, participants were asked to provide a definition of diversity, inclusion, and equity. Afterwards, the students reflected and suggested changes to the definition. Throughout the class, instructors facilitated group discussions about the role of diversity. As a culminating activity, students submitted a written reflection summarizing their understanding of the role of diversity, inclusion, and equity in healthcare. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Instructional materials included videos, a facilitators guide, a reflection worksheet, and online course modules. The facilitators guide included an overview of best practices in the facilitation of group discussions, common rules groups can establish for open dialogue, and discussion questions specific to the Black Voices videos. In-class and lab discussions brought up several prominent metaphors for diversity and inclusion. For example, students first defined diversity as pieces of the puzzle that somehow fit together, but later surmised that the pieces do not need to fit, or be from the same puzzle. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Our pilot showed that participants experienced the power of storytelling, particularly for amplifying Black voices, gained a vehicle to expand awareness and consciousness of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and identified plans to promote and facilitate stories of race, equity, and diversity.