Diversity and inclusion: An intro for engineers

This module is free of charge to Engineering New Zealand members.

Engineers are problem solvers by nature. To be effective in their work, engineers need to be able to consider the solutions that they are developing to problems through their impact on all users of the solution. Approaching problem-solving through the lens of inclusion for diverse needs and identities strengthens the work of engineers.  

This online module will introduce you to diversity, equity and inclusion, what causes biases and how to mitigate and overcome them. You'll explore how to incorporate inclusivity into the design of your work.   

By the time you’ve finished this module, you’ll be better equipped to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion, and take action to support inclusion and equity in your work and your workplace. 

This two hour module introduces this topic, and frames for considering implications and obligations for engineers. 

Learning outcomes

Participants will be able to: 

• Explain what is meant by 'diversity' and 'inclusiveness'. 
• Describe a model for considering the range of diverse identities that exist and make up a person's unique identity. 
• Explain key benefits to your work and workplace of greater diversity and inclusiveness, and practical steps that can be taken to support greater inclusivity at work. 
• Describe what unconscious bias is, some impacts it can have, and some mitigating steps that can be taken to minimise the impact of unconscious bias in work decisions. 
• Explain what is meant by 'inclusivity by design' from an engineering perspective, and examples of this. 

Intended audience

This course is designed for all engineers wanting to begin or refresh their learning journey on this topic. It is also suitable for those whose work relates to or supports the engineering field.

Module format

This is a self-directed learning module that learners work through at their own pace. Content is presented through a mix of reading, interactive activities to check your understanding, short videos, and self-reflection points where you can make notes to refer back to after you've finished the module.