The seminar offered a foundational exploration of unconscious bias—those automatic, unexamined assumptions and attitudes that exist beyond our conscious control, and which often stand in contrast to our stated beliefs and values. With an emphasis on interaction and self-reflection, participants were guided through an engaging session that encouraged discussion and participation.
Attendees were divided into small groups and unpacked four key types of bias: similarity bias, confirmation bias, the horn effect, and the halo effect. Each group also visually represented the changes they would like to see within the department. Themes of empathy, mutual respect, and more intentional dialogue across lines of difference emerged as common threads across all the discussions—alongside shared light-hearted moments and acts of kindness.
Building on the previous seminar’s reflections on identity and inclusion, the need to question and confront our own unconscious assumptions remains vital to meaningful transformation.
Compiled by Dr Vinasha Ramasamy