Going beyond the "Shrink Wrap:" Inclusion, Diversity, and IT

Monday, December 5, 2016 - 9:00am–12:30pm

J. Goosby Smith, Ph.D., The Citadel

Abstract: 

We will start with an interactive introduction exercise that will result in participants knowing each others' names. Next, we will engage in an experiential examination of the diversity present in the room. I will present a robust definition of diversity that goes beyond the "shrink wrap" (e.g., personality, gender (as well as sex), parental status, etc.). After debriefing this exercise and its relevance to it, participants will create a collective model for how "diversity" impacts the role of the IT professional. Next, we will shift from diversity to inclusion—an entirely different yet often closely correlated construct. In trios, participants will share their peak moments of inclusion in IT. They will collectively build a model of an inclusive IT culture. I will then present my research-based model of inclusion and we will brainstorm best practices of inclusion in IT. I will close the workshop with an exercise that elicits what each person has contributed to the learning and growth of others.

J. Goosby Smith, Ph.D., The Citadel

An experienced author, consultant, and public speaker on topics of diversity and inclusion in corporate, higher educational, and military work contexts, Smith's goal with each organizational encounter is to increase human thriving, creativity, and resilience in organizations. She is presently an Associate Professor of Management and Leadership in Charleston at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, where she also serves as Director of Graduate Programs in Leadership. Prior to earning her Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior from Case Western Reserve University, she earned her M.B.A. (also at Case) and her B.S. in Computer Science from Spelman College.

BibTeX
@conference {208468,
author = {J. Goosby Smith, Ph.D.},
title = {Going beyond the "Shrink {Wrap:}" Inclusion, Diversity, and {IT}},
year = {2016},
address = {Boston, MA},
publisher = {USENIX Association},
month = dec
}