New UM Learn module focuses on the workings of power in post-secondary settings
The interesting thing about power is that it’s always present, whether or not we notice it. As the Harvard graduate and visionary scholar Lisa D. Delpt puts it, “Those with power are frequently least aware of—or least willing to acknowledge—its existence.” Those with less power are often most aware of it because they may be negatively affected by it.
In the new UM Learn module, Exploring Power Dynamics in Post-Secondary Institutions, instructors can enhance their understanding of power dynamics in the post-secondary teaching context.
The module is the third of six modules in Incorporating EDI into Your Course and Teaching, a course to help instructors apply equity, diversity and inclusion concepts in their teaching. Each module provides strategies and teaching techniques and additional resources for those who wish to take their learnings further. It is available to all UM instructors and staff.
This module was authored by Eric Sagenes, a doctoral student at UM and sessional instructor at Brandon University. His areas of scholarly interest include social activism, decolonization and diversity.
“The goal of this module is to raise your consciousness about how power plays out in different situations, so you can start to see how it plays out in your own context,” explains Sagenes. “Once we become aware of how power is operating, then we can be more likely to address it and ensure that we are working towards equitable and inclusive environments.”
By the end of the 35-minute self-study module, learners should be able to:
- explore the concept of power and how practices and policies can marginalize members from equity-deserving groups
- recognize how oppression is based on relationships of unequal power among social groups and how those in power can continually perpetuate inequality
- identify the impact of privilege on teaching and learning
- explore teaching and learning strategies and activities that address power, oppression and privilege in post-secondary and promote equity, diversity and inclusion
The EDI course was developed by the Manitoba Flexible Learning Hub (MB Hub) upon request from the Flexible Learning Advisory Group, representing six post-secondary institutions in Manitoba: Assiniboine Community College, Brandon University, University College of the North, Red River College Polytechnic, University of Winnipeg and University of Manitoba.
More than 10,000 instructional and support staff across the province have access to the course through the learning platform at their respective institutions.
The MB Hub is part of The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning and provides instructional design and digital media support to the six partner institutions.
Access the course today
- Login to UM Learn with your staff email
- In the main navigation menu, select “Self Registration”
- Under Course offering code, select CENTRE_IEDIYCTMOD3_092024 or under Course offering name select Incorporating EDI into Your Course and Teaching: Module 3
Use module completion in EDIA course and micro-certificate
Each of the six UM Learn modules of Incorporating EDI into Your Course and Teaching can be used as an ongoing learning in Equity Diversity Inclusion Accessibility – EDIA: Expansions (EDIA 0102), in the online and hybrid course for UM staff, students and faculty. The course is part of the Micro-certificate in Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) program supports UM’s efforts to improve equity and access across UM campuses, by educating and empowering all members to contribute to individual and collective transformation. It is offered, at no charge, through Extended Education in partnership with the Office of Equity Transformation and with the support of the UM President’s Office.
Other EDI resources
If you want more help applying EDI to your teaching practice, connect with The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning for one-on-one consultations.
Learn more about the Manitoba Flexible Learning Hub.