2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

In this paper, we present the design and implementation of a set of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) based modules, created to be deployed in two courses: one in introductory computing and one in algorithms. Our objective is to ensure that engineering undergraduate students, who are not historically exposed to DEI content, are introduced to these important topics in the context of their technical coursework and that they understand the relevance of DEI to their careers. We created 6 modules that cover a wide range of topics including untold stories throughout the history of computing and algorithms, identity and intersectionality in engineering, designs from engineering that have high societal impact, the LGBTQ+ experience in engineering, engineering and mental health, and cultural diversity within engineering. Each module gives a brief overview of the topic, followed by an associated assignment. We made all of these modules available to the students in the two courses and told them to choose one to complete. Each student engaged with their selected module in four specific ways: (1) watching a relevant video; (2) reading and annotating a provided article; (3) responding in a written reflection to a set of specific prompts relevant to the module; and (4) conducting an interview with a peer or community member using a list of suggested questions about the module’s contents . Afterwards, we required students to communicate what they learned through completing and submitting a graded final deliverable. This deliverable can be a video, slide presentation, a written op-ed piece, or a piece of art about the work they completed in the module. We evaluate the content of the modules through a survey that assesses the students’ interest in the modules and determines the utility of the modules in the context of the study of computing and algorithms. Based on the feedback of these surveys along with feedback from the instructors of the courses, we will further develop and improve the structure and content of these modules and expand their reach to additional engineering courses and disciplines.