Navigating the Landscape: Exploring EDI-specific issues in different research areas
As an EDI expert and practitioner, I am often confronted with the difficulties that ESRs face when it comes to adding a gender+ dimension to research and teaching content.
In fact, in the ever-evolving landscape of academic research, understanding the nuances of gender and diversity is essential to advancing inclusion. Although the specific EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) issues may vary from discipline to discipline, there are overarching themes that can be found across the academic spectrum.
This post serves as a starting point for researchers unfamiliar with the intricacies of gender and diversity in their discipline and provides an angle through which they can explore common themes. Let us dive into the common EDI challenges that are prevalent in almost every discipline.
Common isseus in many STEM areas
Uncovering gender inequalities in XXX education:
Research in XXX education reveals persistent patterns of disparities between genders and other underrepresented categories. Segregation between women and men and girls and boys is evident in various fields of study, not to speak about underrepresented groups, still rarely studied. Of particular concern is the lack of gender-disaggregated data, including categories such as M/F/Non Binary/Other (specify)/Not specified.
Navigating the XXX labour market:
The XXX labour market is not exempt from EDI challenges. Women and underrepresented groups struggle with low labour force participation rates, especially in highly skilled occupations and leadership positions. Dominant gender identities, which are often masculine, shape work culture and influence workplace dynamics and identity. In addition, different gender and identity roles result in different perspectives on XXX-related technologies.
Eliminating gaps in decision-making and innovation:
Inequalities in decision-making positions, innovation opportunities and entrepreneurship persist due to unequal access to funding, information, training and networks. These gender inequalities hinder progress and limit the diversity of thought that is critical to innovation. A closer look at the “gender” gap reveals a complex web of factors that affect individuals’ willingness to engage in areas such as sustainable resource management or take initiatives to change behaviour.
Inequalities in access to XXX outcomes and technologies:
The unequal distribution of access to XXX outcomes, technologies and services remains a pressing issue. Often there are still gender gaps that hinder the full utilisation of progress in this area. Overcoming these inequalities requires a concerted effort to break down barriers and create an inclusive environment that favours equal access.
Conclusion
When embarking on a research journey, one must be aware of EDI issues that are specific to one’s field. By recognising the common challenges outlined in this post, researchers can gain valuable insights into the broader nature of EDI dynamics. As we navigate the complexities of our respective disciplines, promoting inclusion becomes not only a goal, but a collective responsibility for advancing knowledge and innovation in diverse fields of research.
