Week 8: Inclusive Pedagogy

Next week we will examine contemporary diversity issues and think about how to use inclusive pedagogy in our classrooms. Just as our learning environments are complex, so are the individuals that comprise them. Everyone has visible as well as “invisible” cultural identities, and inclusive pedagogy attends to those differences. Inclusive pedagogy seeks to engage learners in ways that are inclusive and supports environments that are attentive to diversity. It also helps prepare students to contribute productively to an increasingly complex and globalized society by helping them develop a broader understanding of domestic and global diversity issues.

So, this is a big project. And an important one. Some of us have already thought about and worked extensively in this area, some of us are just dipping our toes in, and many of us are somewhere in between. This is ok. In fact, it’s even a plus.

To prepare for seminar next week, please read the required texts.(id’d with an asterisk*) Start with the two short selections (on the Hidden Brain and diversity in the workplace). You’ll note that some of the materials for this module have been updated or inspired by the recent upturn in incidents of racism and intolerance locally and nationally. Please have a look at President Sands’ recent statement about the tensions between Freedom of Expression and VT’s Principles of Community, and make sure to listen to the podcast on “Dismantling Racism in Education.” And make sure you read Dr. Labuski’s project description for “Universal Precautions. Dr. Labuski will be joining us for class next week so you will want to be prepared to discuss her work.

The selections by Claude Steele and the article on Brave Spaces / Safe Spaces are longer, but you should read them as well and  come to class ready to talk about them. As usual, you may blog about whatever resonates most with you.

If you want more of a deep dive or are already familiar with these texts, please explore the supplemental materials on Canvas and on the supplemental page on the schedule. If there are items you think we should know about, please tweet them out to #gedivt

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