AEJMC Advertising Division 2020 Teaching Pre-Conference Review: Embracing Diversity Equity and Inclusion Across the Advertising Curriculum-Learning from the Pros

Abstract

The Advertising Division of the Association for Educators in Journalism and Mass Communication held its 23rd annual Teaching Pre-Conference, virtually, on the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the advertising industry. Six advertising professionals with DEI experience were invited to share their insights. In short, the key findings are that the lack of diversity remains of paramount importance and will take an ongoing, industry-wide commitment to resolve. In support, advertising educators need to thread DEI discussions across the curriculum. Presentations were followed by a moderated question and answer session, with educators invited to ask questions and then debrief in follow-up sessions. Teaching tips were gathered from attending educators and are housed on the Ad Division website.

Beyond Colorblindness in Advertising Education: Multiculturalism and Advertising Pedagogy Since the 2020 Racial Reckoning

“…Diversity and inclusion are essential building blocks for the education of future business leaders (Crittenden et al, 2020). The recommendation for advertising educators is to include DEI discussions throughout the advertising curriculum (Spring et al, 2021). We assert that intentional and experiential classroom projects focused on multiculturalism can result in real-world connectivity and marketability.…”

“…In 2020, even as protests unfolded following the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, the Advertising Division of the Association for Educators in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) discussed ways that advertising educators should embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the advertising curriculum. The session focused on insights shared by professionals within the advertising industry (Spring et al, 2021) toward achieving DEI within both advertising pedagogy and professional practice. Participants identified several tactics, including advisory councils and listening forums; "brave spaces for honest conversations"; internships and scholarships; partnerships between advertising professionals and academia; focus on a multicultural pipeline; and recognition of diversity gap in mid-level and senior positions.…”

Revisiting the Impact of the Pandemic on Cultural Diversity in Advertising and Public Relations Courses

“…Interdisciplinary talks with educators and professionals through conferences, workshops, and forums have been resumed in person post-pandemic. The discussions covered a broad spectrum of diversity, including culture, workplace, and work (Spring et al, 2021). Even during the pandemic, the authors observed increasing virtual talks with prominent scholars and professionals made available to students that would be otherwise limited due to financial burdens.…”