What is the Implicit Bias Transformation Program?
The IBTP is a methodical, individually-targeted program that takes motivated individuals through the following process:
- Understanding the natural aspects of bias
- Identifying and working through the shame associated with the recognition of personal biases
- Learning tools to become more aware of the origins of our own unique personal biases
- Exploring and ultimately transforming these biases using proven cognitive and behavioral methods
While the model is comprehensive in its current form, it is also adaptable and modular so as to fit the needs of the group or organization that wishes to utilize it.
What is the intent of this site?
This website has been created to showcase the foundations, design, and prototype of the Implicit Bias Transformation Program. The IBTP was developed as the final capstone project for the Harvard University Extension School’s Master’s degree program by Siobahn Hotaling, with guidance and support from her main advisor, Professor Adrienne Tierney.
The ultimate goal of the IBTP is to become a proven model to help willing individuals transform their biases. In the short-term, we invite those organizations that are serious about bias training and tolerance building to pilot and implement this program.
What makes the IBTP different from other bias training programs?
Most bias trainings programs are administered in a group setting or in a non-interactive online format. While many trainings do a good job at giving a cursory understanding of what bias is and some examples of how biases are expressed, very few – if any – work to help participants target their specific biases, and still fewer give them the tools to transform them. This leaves the participants with some intellectual understandings of bias, but no actual perceptual or emotional changes take place. This renders these trainings all but useless for doing what they claim to do – help eliminate biases in the world.
The IBTP distinguishes itself from other bias trainings by taking a more personalized and internally-focused approach. It does this by using the following techniques:
- A conceptual-change-based educational model
Teaching participants about the nature of bias using a learning structure that is designed to not just inform, but also inspire thought and re-evaluation. This process facilitates fundamental and lasting perceptual shifts in participants’ views on their biases, and biases in general. - Acknowledging and addressing common emotional barriers
Openly talking about the shame, anger, and other negative emotions that can arise when faced with examining our biases, and giving participants the opportunity and tools to manage these emotions. - Making the material personal
Helping participants not only identify their personal biases, but also begin to explore the origins and emotions surrounding their personal biases in a supportive environment. - Providing practical tools and exercises
Either in a group-based or one-on-one setting, participants will be given the necessary guidance to examine and transform their personal biases. Additionally, they will leave the program with a set of ongoing tools and resources to continue the work.