DEIB framework: diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as interdependent foundations of collaborative learning¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 4 claims (4 for) · 5 studies (4 review, 1 quant-synthesis), q1–q3 · 0 of 5 report an effect size · 3 claims rest on one study

Description¶

The primer organizes inclusive collaborative learning around four defined terms. Diversity refers to "the identities, experiences, and perspectives that make us different from one another"; equity ensures learners have what they need to succeed by centering the whole learner; inclusion facilitates access to and participation in high-quality learning opportunities; and belonging is "a student's emotional need to feel personally valued, included, and supported by their learning community." Each term is paired with its relevance for collaborative learning, e.g., integrating diverse voices in discussions "often leads to better outcomes," and feelings of belonging are associated with trust, motivation, engagement, and emotional safety.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• A shared vocabulary and agreed definitions of the terms, since without a shared understanding efforts risk becoming fragmented and ineffective

Constraints¶

• Definitions of DEIB principles are varied and inconsistent across the field, making success hard to measure

Target Learners¶

• All K-12 classroom students, including historically and systematically excluded students

Target Learning Objectives¶

• Collaborative learning skills
• Sense of belonging and inclusion
• Equitable participation in group work

Claims¶

• Belonging Prerequisite For Collaborative Learning [+W]
• Belongingness is among the factors that most strongly and reliably affect learners' academic motivation and achievement [+W]
• Stereotype threat in collaborative contexts can interfere with working memory and reduce meaningful contribution [+W]
• Teacher support is one of the strongest predictors of student belonging [+W]

Related Theories¶

• Rightful presence in education systems: a framework for building equity and justice at the systems level
• Rightful Presence

Examples¶

• Open convenings with equity sentence stems and equity champion keynotes to build trust and shared commitment
• Use group roles, rotating roles, shared rubrics, and product-and-process debriefs to foster belonging in group work
• Racial Equity In Pbl Build Community Through Shared Ownership

Key Sources¶

• Thevenard, P., Shell, A., Victor, L., Glazer, K., Fusco, J., Tyler, C., and Akanbi, K. (2025, May). Foundations of Collaboration. Digital Promise. https://doi.org/10.51388/20.500.12265/253