Exploring a self-evaluation approach to assess diversity, equity, and inclusion at Otago Polytechnic
Author: Veronique Olin
Supervisors: Jo Kirkwood Henk Roodt
26 January 2023
Olin, V. (2023). Exploring a self-evaluation approach to assess diversity, equity, and inclusion at Otago Polytechnic. (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Professional Practice). Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga, New Zealand. https://doi.org/10.34074/thes.6438
Abstract
The aim of this professional practice project was to explore whether a self-evaluation process would be a useful approach for gathering organisational information about the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at a medium-sized tertiary organisation, Otago Polytechnic. Diversity Works NZ, a national authority for workplace diversity and inclusion, suggests that doing DEI well and reaping the business and social benefits, requires a strategic approach and thorough, purposeful, and constant efforts. A useful starting point for this is to undertake an assessment of the current state of existing DEI practices and activities at a systems level, including employee experience feedback and how DEI is embedded in policies, leadership, recruitment, and development processes. This information enables an organisation to understand what is working well, and to make informed decisions on what changes, improvements, and priorities should be focused on. During this project, a comprehensive self-evaluation tool was designed and used to survey two selected groups of Otago Polytechnic staff, to examine their perceptions of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The staff were selected for their involvement in leading and influencing DEI efforts at OP, and those who self-identified their interest in DEI through involvement in the DEI Committee. Participants used a Likert scale to rate their level of agreement against a number of DEI indicator statements grouped into 8 domains, with an open question section to provide comment and feedback. The results were examined for patterns of positive and negative responses. Overall, the results provided valuable information towards understanding the current state and maturity of DEI activity at Otago Polytechnic, offering a useful lens on what was working well and areas where improvements could be made. Several recommendations have been made for elaborating and building on this work in the next few months. This project also enabled a fascinating exploration of the intersections of my inquiry project within the broader dimensions of my work, the organisation, external environment, and my personal world. This process revealed deeper insights and learning that has strengthened my professional framework of practice, documenting my growing expertise in supporting and enhancing organisation DEI practice, and empowering me with knowledge and motivation for the potential opportunities that the future brings.
Keywords
diversity, equity, inclusion, workplace, self-evaluation
Licence
A copy of the thesis is publicly available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives licence CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International
This licence applies except where otherwise indicated, especially for images.
