Equity Case Studies Report - School of Social Work - University of ...

UBC school of social work equity and diversity strategic plan: A compilation of case studies 54
similar social relations in the classroom and student reactions against it often pose
difficult challenges in the classroom for both faculty and students. (pp. 83-84)
Due to such difficulties in climate and relationships within the classroom, members of the
Faculty of Social Work have begun to document these experiences to try to develop creative and
constructive strategies to deal with these situations (George, Shera, & Tsang, 1998).
Another critical issue in increasingly moving towards diversity, equity, and inclusiveness
is positive incentives (George, Shera, & Tsang, 1998). As the traditional merit system of
academic institutions highlight research, publications, and teaching as the criteria for promotions
and tenure, it can often be difficult to make the time, energy, and commitment to community
outreach and service (George, Shera, & Tsang, 1998). As George, Shera, and Tsang, (1998)
discuss, in such an organizational context that prioritizes formal academic activities, the Faculty
of Social Work continues to work on how legitimacy of working with the ‘community’ can be
established (George, Shera, & Tsang, 1998).
Last, the Faculty recognizes the important role of resources and the challenges that come
with securing adequate resources. The Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work continues to
demonstrate commitment to diversity and equity initiatives by investing financial and human
resources, which can be challenging at a time when deep cuts are affecting numerous areas of
university operations. Despite these challenges, one of the Faculty’s ongoing goals include
allocating adequate resources to diversity initiatives, and to ensure that these initiatives “be saved
from marginalization and tokenism” (George, Shera, & Tsang, 1998, p. 83).