E-learning course on dealing with sexual harassment in everyday studies and work

We all want ETH to remain a safe and respectful place. Bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination, threats and violence are not tolerated at our university and will have consequences. As part of the “Stand up for respect” initiative, the Executive Board is launching an e-learning course for an in-depth exploration of the topic of sexual harassment in everyday studies and work.

Sexual harassment affects us all

The new e-learning course aims to encourage and enable all ETH members to take a stand in the event of a sexual harassment incident. The learning unit consists of interactive elements and uses case studies to demonstrate how sexual harassment can manifest and to explain the legal framework.

The e-learning course is aimed at all ETH members – from professors to students and scientific employees as well as administrative and technical staff. It takes around 60 minutes to complete. The learning unit is therefore not something that can be done “quickly between a couple of meetings”. Such an important topic deserves our undivided attention, as ETH President Joël Mesot emphasises: “This e-learning course is a central component of the culture of mutual respect at our university. I therefore expressly ask all ETH members to take the time to complete this course. It is a worthwhile investment.”

Breaking taboos is important

Taking a stand, reporting grievances and standing up for yourself and others is often difficult, especially in cases of sexual harassment: “Unfortunately, sexual harassment is still a taboo subject. With the e-learning module, we want to raise awareness within our community and support individuals in not only identifying sexual harassment, but above all in speaking out when they are affected by or witness such behaviour,” explains Julia Dannath, Vice President for Personnel Development and Leadership. After all, it is only when we begin talking about sexual harassment that we are able to help those affected and create an environment that actively intervenes.

“The e-learning module provides a great, in-depth insight into the topic and every ETH member can learn from it,” says Julia Dannath, explaining that after completing the training, people will have a better sense of where sexual harassment begins. “We often hear the question, ‘Are you not even allowed to make a joke or flirt anymore?’. Of course we can have a laugh at our place of work or study and show others our affection. However, this behaviour becomes unacceptable when doing so violates another person's dignity and boundaries.”