J Nutr Educ Behav. 2022 Oct 21:S1499-4046(22)00488-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2022.08.012. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To examine websites of didactic programs in dietetics (DPD) for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)-related language and to assess perceived gender and ethnic/racial representation in images.
METHODS: We conducted a content analysis on the first 6 website images and 3-elements of DPD (n = 212) websites (mission statement, goals and objectives, and the immediate landing page). Descriptive statistics and a website DEI score were calculated.
RESULTS: Equity and inclusion-related terms appeared on < 5% of websites. Diversity and culture-related terms appeared on about one-third of websites. On average, researchers perceived 28.45% of people in website images as non-White, and 20.11% as non-female. Most websites received low DEI scores.
CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: The DPD websites had a limited representation of DEI-related terms and image representation of individuals perceived to be non-female and non-White. Leaders of DPDs may consider displaying and describing the program’s commitment to DEI on the website for potential students.
PMID:36274009 | DOI:10.1016/j.jneb.2022.08.012
