Ingeborg and Will first gathered a list of constructs integral to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility—as they relate to learning and development. Ingeborg brought with her extensive experience and academic research in this area and Will expanded the search by reviewing scientific research.
After brainstorming a large list of constructs, Ingeborg and Will narrowed down the list to a workable number of constructs to be targeted with questions. From there, they developed a first draft of questions and began an intensive discussion of how to word the questions, what answer options to provide, in what order, and with what standard of acceptability. Each answer item is aligned with a standard, either “Alarming,” “Unacceptable,” “Acceptable,” or “Superior.”
We were very careful to avoid jargon, clichéd phrases, and bias. We also worked to ensure the messages conveyed would avoid triggering anybody, regardless of their background, their experience with DEIA issues, or their political sensitivities.
We wrangled mightily with each other, always respectfully, but both assertively questioning the wording and focus of questions and answer choices. We went back and forth improving the questions through at least a dozen iterations. We also sought feedback from colleagues, clients, academics with expertise in DEIA, and others.
