Creating an Inclusive and Resilient Future in Chemistry Education
Minoritized individuals are leaving the chemistry enterprise and other STEM pathways at rates that will disrupt workforce stability. The Journal of Chemical Education will publish a special issue (see Journal of Chemical Education Call for Papers: Special Issue on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect in Chemistry Education Research and Practice by clicking here) to highlight effective strategies for investigating and preventing this exodus in order to create a resilient STEM workforce in the US and abroad. The special issue was spurred by recent US events that centered around extreme political divides and systemic exclusionary and discriminatory practices. The events incited many to pursue actions that recognized the humanity of all individuals and ensured their equitable participation in various aspects of the nation.
I find comfort in the growing number of individuals who see and hear the concerns of marginalized communities, particularly those in STEM. I am equally encouraged by those from around the world that stand as advocates and allies. The special issue, in a sense, seeks to leverage this critical mass to effect change. The special issue will showcase research and practices that lead to diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect (DEIR) in the chemistry learning environment. The landscape for this type of work spans curricular and co-curricular initiatives and advocacy and policy efforts alike. The special issue will be the journal’s first publication dedicated to chemistry-based efforts in broadening participation. I hope that members of the OrganicERs community will submit manuscripts that showcase activities to increase the participation of minoritized individuals in STEM careers.
Interested authors can get additional information about the special issue or DEIR efforts in chemistry by:
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Reviewing the call on the JCE webpage by clicking here.
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Participating in the ACS Webinar: Creating an Inclusive and Resilient Future in Chemistry Education. Register by clicking here.
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Sending questions to me at lwinfield@spelman.edu
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Attending Office Hours as follows:
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February, Wednesdays at 3 pm eastern standard time. Register by clicking here.
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March, Thursdays at 12 noon eastern standard time. Register by clicking here.