Vocabulary Primer Learning Series

Each resource spotlights a distinct concept, offering a wealth of resources and insights to enrich your knowledge on crucial topics from implicit bias, code-switching, gender diversity, microaggressions, privilege and white fragility, stereotypes, allyship, intersectionality, cultural competence, equity, and belonging.

Implicit (or Unconscious) Bias

This animation video introduces the key concepts of unconscious bias. It forms part of the Royal Society’s efforts to ensure that all those who serve on Royal Society selection and appointment panels are aware of differences in how candidates may present themselves, how to recognize bias in yourself and others, and how to recognize inappropriate advocacy or unreasoned judgment.

Also, read Implicit Bias from the American Psychological Association.

Code Switching

Individuals often use different dialects, or styles of speaking, according to the situation they find themselves in or the audience they are speaking with.

Listen to NPR’s Code Switch Podcast and read the Harvard Business Review post The Cost of Code Switching by Courtney L McCluney, Kathrina Robotham, Serenity Lee, Richard Smith, and Myles Durkee.

LGBTQIA and Gender Diversity

Ever heard the abbreviation LGBTQQIAAP2S and wondered what those letters mean? This video helps explain the definition of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Ally, Pansexual, and Two Spirit to help make the world a more understanding and loving place.

Also, watch the video LGBT 101: An Introduction to the Queer Community by Margalit Schindler and read What Is the “I” in LGBTQIA+? by CU Denver.

Read two additional articles on Dartmouth LGBTQIA+ Life by Trans@Dartmouth and the ABCs of L.G.B.T.Q.I.A.+ by The NYTimes.

Microaggressions

Read Microaggressions and Examples by Cleveland Clinic, read Microaggressions in the Classroom by the University of Denver, read Addressing Microaggressions in the Classroom by the University of Washington, and watch Microaggressions in the Classroom by Focused Arts Media eDucation.

Privilege & White Fragility

This video describes that white privilege refers to the unquestioned and unearned set of advantages, entitlements, benefits, and choices that people have simply because they are white.

Also, read Understanding White Privilege by Frances E. Kendall, PhD, The Origins of Privilege by Joshua Rothman, and White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack by Peggy McIntosh from The SEED Project.

Stereotype

In his video, John Shaw discusses why we use labels and where they come from. What is the purpose of labels? The purpose of this talk is to explore the effectiveness of labeling others. Is it efficient? Or is it too harmful?

Also, watch The Effects of Negative Stereotypes on Performance at the College Level by Claude Steele and read Stereotype Threat: Definition, Resources, and Interventions by the National Institutes of Health and Stereotype Threat by the University of Colorado Boulder Center for Teaching & Learning.

Allyship

In this video, learn how to take meaningful action as an ally. Allyship at work helps you understand your privilege and positional power and learn specific actions you can take to show up as an ally.

Also, read Allyship in the Academy by Purdue Butler Center for Leadership Excellence and What’s an Ally? by Manchester Community College’s Guide with classroom tips. Watch 5 Tips For Being An Ally by Franchesca Ramsey.

Intersectionality

Learn what intersectionality is in this video by the Center for Intersectional Justice.

Also, watch Kimberlé Crenshaw at Ted and listen to the Intersectionality Matters podcast by Kimberlé Crenshaw.

Cultural Competence

This video describes how our world is becoming more connected and how various cultures will interact more in our daily lives.

Also, read Definitions of Cultural Competence by Georgetown University and What is Cultural Competence and How to Develop It? by Penn State Extension. Watch What is Cultural Competence? by Arkansas Open Education.

Equity

In this video, explore the difference between equal treatment and equitable treatment. It might seem like treating every student equally is the best thing to do. But practicing equity means understanding the needs of each student. That’s why equitable practices are the only way to ensure all students get what they need to succeed.

Also, read Equity vs. Equality: What’s the Difference? by Marin Health and Human Services and Examples of Key Differences Between Equality and Equity by International Women’s Day. Watch Equity Vs. Equality by The Harbor by Jostens.

people extending hands to each other to help everyone climb up stairs.

Belonging

Evidence has shown that in certain contexts, a student’s sense of belonging improves academic outcomes, increases continuing enrollment, and is protective for mental health. In some of the studies presented, these correlations were still present beyond the time frame of the analysis, suggesting that belonging might have a longitudinal effect. Learn what exactly the DEIB terms mean and what are the differences.

Read Putting the "B" in Your DEIB Strategy: Why Belonging Is Essential by Bravely, Sense of Belonging by Cornell University Diversity & Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB): A 2023 Overview by Academy to Innovate HR, Foster a Sense of Belonging by Iowa State University Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching, and Students' Sense of Belonging Matters: Evidence from Three Studies by Teaching Learning Lab.

Neurodiversity

In this video, Dr. Camilla Pang shares her unique understanding of the world growing up, using the lens of science. Diagnosed with autism at age eight, Camilla was able to use scientific concepts to help her traverse ideas that she struggled to understand, such as emotions and finding your voice. Camilla went on to complete her PhD in cancer bioinformatics, and today, she works as a researcher and is a celebrated author (the youngest winner of the Royal Society Insight Investment Award).

Pronouns

This video discusses how when you come out as trans, people sometimes take a while to adjust to your new pronouns or don’t quite understand.

Also, read Talking about pronouns in the workplace by The Human Rights Campaign Foundation.