Irish Universities tackle equality, diversity and inclusion with the help of Marshall E-Learning
Marshall E-Learning, the specialist consultancy for diversity and equality learning, has partnered with the Irish Universities Association Equality Network to launch the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in Higher Education eLearning Programme to all 8 Universities in Ireland.
This bespoke training and awareness program is designed, customised, and delivered by Marshall E-Learning Consultancy. Consisting of a 4-module blended learning approach, it has been created to encourage conversations amongst staff about equality, diversity, inclusion and human rights issues.
David Marshall, Owner of Marshall E-Learning Consultancy said ‘We’re so proud to have worked with the Irish Universities Association Equality Network to create this bespoke program with them. Projects such as this demonstrate our ability as a team to complete even the most complex of tasks. The course is designed with different pathways for staff, covering legislation, but also looking at recruitment, diversity in learning and teaching, alongside student issues is really compelling and we look forward to hearing the feedback from university staff soon’.
Ann Allcock, Head of Diversity at Marshall E-Learning Consultancy said ‘We’re so pleased to have supported the IUA Equality Network with this exciting new project. In partnering with the Irish Universities our aim was to offer an engaging learning experience for University staff, with practical and relevant material that supports them to embed best practice in daily working lives, for the benefit of the whole university community. I believe that has been achieved with the new module, and that this will be a valuable new resource for learners.’
Commenting on the launch of the programme, Dr Marie Connolly, Director Human Rights, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) at the University of Limerick said: “Working in consultation with Marshall E-Learning Consultancy in developing this EDI training and awareness programme for staff has provided the Irish Higher Education Sector with an exceptional eLearning resource. The programme is intended to be practical to assist university staff in their day-to-day work, to help them think differently and put policy into practice. The IUA Equality Network would like to acknowledge the funding granted by the HEA in support of this sectoral initiative and for the expert advice and feedback on the draft programme provided by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC), The National Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI), Pavee Point, AsIAm and LGBTi Ireland. The network would like to acknowledge the exceptional advice and expertise provided by David and the Marshall E-Learning team throughout the development of the programme”.
The course consists of four separate modules that can be completed as an entire program or completed over time to build up knowledge. The modules cover a comprehensive overview of the importance and benefits of EDI and Human Rights and the legal landscape in which Higher Education Institutions operate. The second module looks at Recruitment and Selection. Module 3 covers meeting the needs of diverse students and best proactive tips on fostering equality in teaching and learning settings, whilst the 4th module looks at putting policy into practice.
All modules are fully digitally accessible, with users able to access material online, via a workbook or an audio podcast.
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The Irish Universities Equality Network is made up of: Dublin City University, NUI Galway, Maynooth University, Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork, University College Dublin, University of Limerick. The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) were also partners in the project.