Constructing A New Reality for Social Distancing – Inclusion

Social construction theory says that individuals create constructs in order to make sense of the objective world. One way we do this is by structuring what we see and experience into categories.  For example, if I described an object that was flat on top with four equal length extensions (or legs) and a height of four feet, most of us would socially construct such an object to be a table.  Relative to COVID-19, health and government officials are requesting us to practice social distancing defined as occupying a space at least six-feet away from the next person.  Wouldn’t it be interesting to socially construct a new meaning for social distancing?  What are ways in which we can experience social distance while still being inclusive?  Here are a few ideas that I had.

• Ensuring ADA guidelines regarding high-risk age groups are updated
•  Flexing our FMLA practices for parents caring for children during school closings
• Eliminating stereotypical behavior surrounding age, race, ethnicity and culture related to COVID-19
• Modifying access policies associated with required eLearning modules for those working from home
• Developing intentional weekly blogs, Skype, Zoom or other technology-enriched touch base meetings for those working remotely
• Understanding and exploring the needs of the hourly and non-exempt workforce demonstrating equity in the administration and implementation of work from home opportunities
• Allowing the most vulnerable to take the last gallon of milk at the grocery store
• Staying home during the first hour of each day to reduce risk and exposure to high-risk populations
• Identifying a “circle of friends” so that low-risk visits can still take place
• Engaging college students who formerly held work-study positions to provide on-line tutoring to younger-agend children at home

Let’s socially construct a new reality and a new meaning for social distancing – let’s call it Inclusion.

More ideas, your ideas?