interrUpting bias
Skills for crucial conversations in the workplace
interrUpting bias is a University of Utah workshop developed by an interdisciplinary team of faculty at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine. The goal of this workshop is to learn how to interrupt bias using Forum Theatre in workplace settings.
Healthy, constructive dialogue around biases and assumptions is hard to achieve, but critical for team diversity, growth, and innovation. Research has shown that when an individual interrupts an act of bias, there are opportunities for learning by that individual and bystanders. Interrupting bias does not always come naturally; however, it can be learned.
Using Forum Theatre techniques, facilitators of interrUpting bias provide participants the opportunity to practice identifying and interrupting incidents of bias in a safe and collaborative environment.
Trainings can be held virtually or in-person for groups up to 50 in size and typically range from 60-90 minutes in duration, though timing can be adapted to participant needs. Trainings are conducted by 2-3 facilitators. Facilitators are equipped to conduct workshops geared towards faculty, trainees, and students of all disciplines.
Cost depends on the session duration, number of participants, and number of facilitators required. Scholarships may also be available depending on circumstance.
Contact the Center for Health Ethics, Arts, and Humanities for further information.
SKILLS
During this workshop, participants will practice interrupting bias. By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to apply:
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various strategies to interrupt bias
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techniques from Forum Theatre to rehearse for crucial conversations
FORUM THEATRE
Forum Theatre has been used successfully in many professional and education settings to address bias
EARLY DATA & FEEDBACK
COMFORT INITIATING CRUCIAL CONVERSATIONS
FEEDBACK FROM PARTICIPANTS
"I wanted to sincerely thank you for the training on interrupting bias today. The training felt relevant, and it artfully threaded the needle of stretching our comfort but still being accessible."
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"A lot of us are looking for ways to increase our skills and abilities in order to help establish and maintain a culture of belonging. We have had many trainings in the JEDI-B area that have helped raise our awareness, but this training helped us see ways to take action and was empowering."
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"These skills are critical to practice. The leaders created a safe environment in which to practice."
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"The scenarios were great and well thought out. Thank you for taking the time to help us be better humans."