Fostering Inclusion in Use-Inspired Research and Education: The JEDI Toolkit
How do we expand the circle of participation?
The Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Umbrella Working Group has made significant strides forward in developing methods to construct a stronger foundation for the inclusion of diverse populations across the UIRE ecosystem.
Building the Toolkit: A Foundation for Inclusion
At the core of the activities of UWG#1 is the development of the JEDI toolkit, a resource crafted to provide foundational knowledge comparable to an entry-level undergraduate course. The toolkit offers practical guidance for fostering inclusive and equitable engagement, equipping users with actionable strategies to reduce "othering" and cultivate a sense of belonging for all stakeholders.
Recognizing the importance of visual communication, the JEDI working group developed infographics to enhance the toolkit. Key visuals include the JEDI Cycle, which illustrates the iterative process of integrating justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion principles into research workflows (included below) and the JEDI Phase Best Practices, which offers targeted strategies for each phase of the research process. These tools not only simplify complex concepts but also serve as accessible reference points for individuals and institutions aiming to embrace inclusive practices.
Extending Impact Through Collaboration
In addition to the toolkit, the JEDI working group actively engaged in facilitating and coordinating discussions through Community College to R1 Focus Group Meetings. These meetings served as platforms for a variety of stakeholder groups to share insights, challenges, and best practices, fostering cross-sector collaboration and bridging the gap between two distinct yet interconnected educational ecosystems. By creating spaces for dialogue, the group amplified voices often underrepresented in research and encouraged the exchange of innovative ideas.
Reducing Barriers, Expanding Opportunities
In focusing on reducing systemic barriers and promoting a sense of belonging, the toolkit and associated initiatives aim to make use-inspired research accessible and meaningful for all participants. This reframing emphasizes proactive, systemic change that supports belonging and equity for all.
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re a researcher, educator, or community advocate, there are many ways to engage with the JEDI working group’s efforts. Explore the toolkit, participate in focus group meetings, or bring these resources into your own work to help build a more inclusive and equitable research ecosystem. Activities of this working group are expected to continue beyond this grant.
Members of UWG #1: Justice Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion include Quency Phillips (team lead), Bobbie Reyes, Julie Risien, and Nikki Man.
Work related to this post was funded under NSF Grant #FAIN-2309541.