Fostering Inclusivity in the Classroom: Practical Methods for Success
In today's college classroom environment, creating an inclusive classroom environment is essential for promoting equity, empathy, and effective learning.
In today's college classroom environment, creating an inclusive classroom environment is essential for promoting equity, empathy, and effective learning. An inclusive classroom ensures that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, abilities, or identities, feel valued, respected, and supported in their educational journey. Here are some practical and easy-to-implement methods that you can employ to cultivate an inclusive classroom.
1. Cultivate a Respectful Classroom Culture & Culturally Relevant Teaching:
Setting the tone for inclusivity begins with the classroom culture. The first day of class and your syllabus are the places to start with ground rules that emphasize respect, empathy, and open-mindedness. Encourage active listening—icebreakers are a good place to start. The listening game (or telephone) is an easy and familiar one. Acknowledge diversity—consider discussing people outside the traditional canon in your field, or using examples of diverse scholars/artists/musicians/etc. Choose learning materials, texts, and examples that reflect the backgrounds of your students and the broader society. By exposing students to a wide range of voices and stories, you help them develop a broader worldview and a deeper understanding of social issues. Model inclusive behavior as an educator to inspire your students to do the same.
2. Differentiated Instruction & Universal Design for Learning:
Recognize that students have diverse learning styles, abilities, and needs. Implement differentiated instruction strategies that accommodate various learning paces and preferences. Provide multiple ways to engage with the content, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, group discussions, and technology-based resources. Using the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) will help make your class inclusive for all learners. Create flexible lesson plans and materials that cater to different learning modalities, allowing students to engage and participate in ways that suit their strengths. A typical lecture-style class does not meet the needs of different learners. Breaking it up with group engagement, movement in the classroom, and using a variety of technology will enable each student to access and comprehend the material effectively.
3. Establish Supportive Relationships:
Build strong teacher-student and peer relationships. Take the time to get to know your students individually, their interests, strengths, and challenges. Create a safe space where students feel comfortable expressing themselves and seeking help when needed. Encourage peer support and mentorship, fostering a sense of belonging within the classroom community. For an easy start— have your classroom open 10-15 minutes before class starts and chat with each student that comes in.
An inclusive classroom is a dynamic and enriching environment where diversity is celebrated, and every student has the opportunity to learn and grow.
Sheila Levi-Aland has taught Art & Humanities classes for over 20 years, both in person and online. She received her MA & MFA from the Savannah College of Art and Design with concentrations in 19th-century American art & a creative focus in Chinese painting. Her teaching style entails an interactive, hands-on approach to learning about the various periods covered in her courses. Students work with a variety of mediums to explore each genre and present projects that showcase creativity as well as engaged learning. Her goal is to have each student explore and find their passion! You can find her artwork in SCAD's presidential collection, and several private collections, along with her current publications in SECAC.
