What’s New: Inclusive College and University Learning Communities

One of the highlights of my professional career is when I am invited to deliver a presentation to college and university students. I view these occasions as a privilege because I am getting a chance to meet with the next generation of change makers. Over the decades I have notices that these audiences are getting more diverse with expectations for an inclusive learning experience. 

To respond to this changing context, the faculty of colleges and universities are being challenged to adopt inclusive teaching strategies. In the article Inclusive Teaching Begins with Authenticity by Jackson Christopher Bartlett, Ph. D. discusses how to do better at “connecting with students to set the stage for inclusive, resilient, and accountable learning.”

Bartlett provides four inclusive teaching strategies for faculty to consider including:

• “Start strong. Introductions and low-stake interactions in the syllabus, in your communications, and in class can reduce intimidation and help students get ready to learn.

• Be transparent.  Explaining what students will learn and do and why it’s important is a big part of building trust and respect.

• Use warm-toned and success-oriented language. This helps students take ownership over their learning, course policies, and academic behaviors by charting a path to academic success, rather than the consequences for failure.

• Create shared norms and goals. Policies will only get you so far. Students respond much better to a social contract where support and accountability–not punishment–are at the center.”

Each one of these strategies is accompanied by practical implementation steps. 

This blog is a short read with a compelling message that will be of interest to aspiring and veteran faculty. To read this article, click here.