About the GEDIS Project

The GEDIS Project (Gender Diversity in Information Science: Challenges in Higher Education) is an innovative Erasmus+ initiative that brings together a diverse consortium of universities across Europe to promote gender diversity and equality within the field of Library and Information Science (LIS).

Erasmus+ page results: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/projects/search/details/2024-1-ES01-KA220-HED-000246558. Project Reference: 2024-1-ES01-KA220-HED-000246558

Coordinated by the University of Barcelona in Spain, GEDIS represents a collaborative effort involving:

This transnational partnership is rooted in the shared goal of embedding gender diversity as a key competence in LIS education, fostering inclusivity, and promoting innovative teaching practices.

Context and Background

The GEDIS Project responds to growing recognition of gender inequality in education, cultural industries, and professional environments. In higher education, the inclusion of a gender perspective has been widely acknowledged as a critical factor in addressing systemic barriers to equality. Despite progress, gender diversity remains underrepresented in many university curricula, particularly in LIS, where professionals play a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes through information management and communication.

The project builds upon the success of the GENDIMS initiative, a smaller-scale effort launched by the University of Barcelona in 2021. By expanding its scope to an international context, GEDIS leverages the collective expertise of its partners to drive meaningful change in teaching, learning, and professional practice.

Objectives

GEDIS is driven by the following key objectives:

  1. To integrate gender diversity into LIS curricula: The project seeks to enhance awareness and understanding of gender issues among students, faculty, and librarians, fostering more inclusive teaching practices.
  2. To develop practical tools and resources: GEDIS aims to create open educational materials, including toolkits and case studies, that support the integration of gender perspectives in education.
  3. To promote collaboration and networking: By bringing together educators, researchers, and librarians from different cultural and educational settings, the project fosters a vibrant learning community focused on gender equality.
  4. To ensure long-term impact: The project’s activities are designed to create sustainable change, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to continue advancing gender diversity beyond the project’s duration.

Activities and Methodology

The GEDIS Project employs a comprehensive approach that combines research, training, and collaboration:

  • Curriculum Analysis: The project begins with an in-depth review of existing LIS curricula across partner institutions to identify gaps and opportunities for integrating gender diversity.
  • Expert Consultations and Focus Groups: Insights from experts, students, and faculty members will inform the development of teaching strategies and materials.
  • Training Workshops: Faculty and librarians will participate in interactive workshops to enhance their understanding of gender-sensitive teaching methods and communication.
  • Development of Educational Materials: GEDIS will produce open-access resources, including three toolkits tailored for students, professors, and librarians, along with a serious game to promote active learning.
  • Student Engagement: Summer schools and collaborative activities will empower students to become active participants in promoting gender equality within their institutions.
  • Dissemination Events: Multiplier events and conferences will showcase project outcomes, encouraging broader adoption of its findings and tools.

Expected Results and Impact

The GEDIS Project envisions a transformative impact on both the academic and professional landscapes of LIS. Key outcomes include:

  • Enhanced gender sensitivity: Students, faculty, and librarians will gain deeper awareness and understanding of gender issues, enabling them to address inequalities in their fields.
  • Improved teaching practices: By integrating gender diversity into curricula, the project will help educators create more inclusive and equitable learning environments.
  • Stronger collaboration: Networking among international partners will foster the exchange of ideas and best practices, enriching the educational experience for all participants.
  • Sustainable resources: The open educational materials developed through GEDIS will remain accessible, supporting long-term efforts to promote gender diversity in education and beyond.

Long-Term Benefits

GEDIS aims to create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the project’s duration. By embedding gender diversity as a core element of LIS education, the project prepares students to challenge discriminatory practices and contribute to a more equitable society. Its emphasis on collaboration and innovation ensures that the tools and strategies developed will continue to inspire educators and professionals across Europe and beyond.

By addressing the challenges of gender inequality in a comprehensive and collaborative way, GEDIS not only supports the goals of the Erasmus+ programme but also reinforces the role of higher education as a driver of social change and inclusion. The project’s legacy will be a more inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking academic and professional community.