A proposed framework for inclusive business schools

Abstract

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are now recognized as fundamental issues for higher education institutions. Business schools (BSs) in Western countries have therefore implemented a wide range of actions to integrate all talents and offer a meaningful educational and learning experience to all students. Beyond the moral imperatives of ensuring equal opportunity and diversity, BSs need to go a step further in order to manage this diversity and become inclusive organizations that create open environments where every student can truly find their place and be empowered in a collective dynamic. Anchored in the paradigm of organizational inclusion, this article defines how student inclusion can be put into practice in business schools by involving their stakeholders. It also proposes a framework to foster inclusive Business Schools and enable them to embrace their societal role. We suggest that the inclusive BS framework be built on three pillars – student integration, student learning, and student experience.