Disrupt Unconscious Bias and Improve Your Workplace Culture Course Syllabus

Overview (80-120 words) describing structure and time commitment.

Module 1: Foundations of Unconscious Bias

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Defining bias vs. prejudice
• Understanding how the brain forms implicit associations
• Recognizing the business and human costs of unchecked bias

Module 2: Mapping Common Biases

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Exploring affinity bias
• Examining halo and horn effects
• Understanding confirmation and attribution biases
• Conducting self-assessment exercises to uncover personal bias patterns

Module 3: Disrupting Bias in Communication

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Using bias-free language in meetings and written communications
• Providing and receiving feedback without bias
• Practicing active listening and perspective-taking

Module 4: Inclusive Decision-Making

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Implementing structured decision protocols
• Using diverse panels and blind reviews
• Applying rubric-based scoring in hiring and evaluations
• Mitigating bias in promotions and performance reviews

Module 5: Allyship & Advocacy

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Role modeling inclusive behaviors
• Intervening effectively as an upstander
• Strategies for amplifying underrepresented voices
• Building sponsorship networks

Module 6: Designing Equitable Team Norms

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Co-creating team agreements for psychological safety
• Embedding bias checks into daily work processes
• Establishing accountability in team rituals

Module 7: Leading Culture Change

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Securing leadership buy-in for DEI initiatives
• Aligning DEI goals with business strategy
• Communicating vision and learning from setbacks

Module 8: Sustaining an Inclusive Culture

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Monitoring progress with participation and sentiment metrics
• Tracking diversity outcomes
• Using feedback loops and peer coaching for continuous improvement
• Implementing training refreshers

Prerequisites

• Openness to self-reflection and personal growth
• Basic understanding of workplace dynamics
• No prior DEI training required

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Recognize the roots and impact of unconscious bias on decisions
• Identify common bias types in everyday workplace interactions
• Apply strategies to interrupt biased thoughts and behaviors in real time
• Facilitate inclusive hiring, reviews, and promotion processes
• Build allyship skills and embed equitable practices into team culture