A Critical Discourse Analysis of Online DEI Curriculum in One Corporation

Abstract

This study is a critical discourse analysis of online DEI curriculum of one large corporation. It looks at the intended purposes and unintended outcomes of how DEI curriculum is enacted, the implicit and hidden views of DEI curriculum and how language is connected to the power and discourse of diversity curriculum. By analyzing five DEI curricula through a critical lens that included the mandatory meaningful diversity curricula and four subcategories of belief systems, gender, ethnicity and disability diversity curricula, the research demonstrated positive and negative outcomes in beliefs, thoughts and feelings toward diversity, equity and inclusion training. The research also appraised the implicit and hidden views within bias, microaggressions, intersectionality and code switching. Bias, microaggressions, code switching and nuanced perspectives of intersectionality served as barriers to DEI. Language was critically audited in DEI curricula and counternarratives through critical race theory. The study found language in an ambiguous space, shifting with society and culture.