Faculty Affairs, Diversity and Inclusion staff to host virtual panel discussion series

The Office of Faculty Affairs has partnered with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to host a series of virtual panel discussions to explore the techniques for creating inclusive learning environments.

With the theme “Learning Spaces Where Everybody Belongs,” each session will examine ways faculty may unintentionally create barriers for students and what can be done to overcome those obstacles.

Below is a list of upcoming sessions, which will be conducted via Microsoft Teams.

An Inclusive Learning Environment: Why Does it Matter?

When: 11 a.m. Feb. 26

Why is diversity and inclusion important in learning environments? Faculty will share personal stories about their successes and disappointments in their attempts to create multifaceted inclusive learning environments. These stories will be used to demonstrate the importance of creating inclusive spaces, and to facilitate a discussion of specific strategies and best practices.

Examining Personal Bias in Learning Environments

When: 11 a.m. March 26

An important part of creating inclusive learning environments includes raising self-awareness and identifying implicit biases. In this session, participants will explore personal biases and their impact on learning.

Creating a Sense of Belonging: Responsive Listening and Intercultural Sensitivity

When: 11 a.m. April 23

This discussion will focus on the multicultural orientation framework, including the importance of cultural humility and intercultural sensitivity in the classroom. Responsive listening is an effective strategy to achieving cultural humility and to fostering an environment that is sensitive to the needs of all learners. Participants will learn how to incorporate responsive listening in their instruction to create an environment where all students feel included.

For more information and to register for these sessions, email the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. If you are interested in joining a small learning community through this year’s Chancellor’s Scholars Program to explore this topic further, contact Dr. Ashley Gess.