Inclusive Innovation: What’s Information Technology’s Role?

During the early stages of the pandemic, it was estimated that 20,000 higher education institutions across the globe ceased normal operation, sending home close to 200 million students. While the impact was felt broadly, it had compounding effects on underrepresented and marginalized student communities. This systemic shock compounded and accelerated shifts in higher education. This shifting landscape requires inclusive innovation if institutions and the students they serve—all students—are to succeed. Information technology departments play a critical role in innovating and positioning higher education institutions to achieve their goals, including diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. Join this collaborative strategy and action session to identify steps you can take to leverage technology to create more inclusive and innovative learning environments. Presenters will analyze three areas where information technology departments are well positioned to advance campus DEI goals, mainly through digital accessibility, bridging gaps between communities, and making learning more accessible. Additionally, uncover contemporary and future challenges information technology faces in achieving inclusive innovation, especially as technologies such as AI, robotics, and VR become more readily adopted in higher education. Finally, you and your departments will walk away with concrete best practices for promoting a culture of inclusive innovation.