Online Diversity Course (ODL)

It aims to advance everyday conversations amongst all SU staff and for everyone to accept responsibility towards the institutional culture. Participants are encouraged to critically reflect on individual and group positionality related to views, values and beliefs. Various types of online opportunities are made available for all staff at all levels of employment. Participants may choose their level of engagements: facilitate sessions, write opinion pieces, engage in conversations, etc.

The ODL course is offered in conjunction with other courses (Siyakhula and Restitution Statement workshops) to offer a collection of critical engagements. Completion of a set number of components may result in certification.

Outcomes for ODL participants:

• Recognise the complexity and intersectionality of diversity matters;

• Realise the impact on power imbalances;

• Explore choices and the impact of actions;

• Respond in informed ways around issues of the social impact of diversity engagements;

• Engage or lead in critical conversations around issues of intersectionality as depicted in the diversity wheel (religion, race/ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, age, gender, socio-economic status, and culture);

• Include diversity literacy in curriculum development and research;

• Manage everyday work interactions around critical diversity issues;

• Justify the significance of diversity knowledge to Stellenbosch University, its various communities, and the broader higher education sector.

For more information or enquiries, please contact Dr Jean Farmer at jeanlee@sun.ac.za