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Core Principles of Inclusive Teaching

Inclusive teaching empowers you, as the instructor, to create learning experiences that ensure all students have an equitable opportunity to succeed. Here are three core principles to guide your approach:

1. Inclusive Teaching is a Mindset

• Reflect on every teaching decision by asking, “Who might be excluded by this approach?”
• This perspective encourages intentional choices that promote equity and inclusivity in your classroom.

2. Structure Enhances Student Success

• Clear, well-organized syllabi, assignments, tests, and teaching methods benefit most students without disadvantaging those who don’t require additional structure.
• Thoughtfully designed structure supports learners by providing clarity and reducing ambiguity, fostering better engagement and performance.

3. Lack of Structure Can Exclude Learners

• Traditional methods like lecturing or cold-calling often leave some students behind, limiting engagement and learning opportunities.
• To create a more inclusive environment, consider how increased structure in classroom interactions and course design can support a diverse range of learners.

By applying these principles, you can design a classroom experience that levels the playing field and supports all students, regardless of their backgrounds or needs.

5 Ways to Foster Inclusivity in Class

1. Embrace Silence

Silence during activities like "think-pair-share" can feel awkward but is essential for student reflection.

• Why it matters: Students need time to process and form ideas before sharing.
• How to do it: Say, “I’ll give you two minutes to think or write silently before pairing up.”
• Mix it up: Use tools like polls, index cards, or group-sharing methods to make discussions dynamic.

2. Structure Small-Group Discussions

Adding structure to small groups ensures all students engage effectively.

• Strategies:
  • Assign rotating roles like reporter, skeptic, or facilitator.
  • Teach students how to collaborate within small groups.
  • Provide clear instructions visually (slides or worksheets) to accommodate diverse learning needs.
  • Consider a 

3. Encourage Anonymous Participation

Anonymity can ease anxiety, especially for introverted students or those holding minority opinions.

• No-tech option: Use notecards for anonymous responses. Have students swap cards and share responses anonymously.
• Tech tools: Use polling systems or discussion boards where students remain anonymous to peers but not to you.

4. Address Self-Perceptions

Help students overcome barriers like fixed mindsets and impostor syndrome.

• Promote growth: Reinforce that intelligence grows with effort and learning.
• Build belonging: Be explicit: “You belong here.” Simple affirmations go a long way in supporting students’ confidence and avoiding .

5. Build Personal Connections

Meaningful connections with students foster a positive classroom environment.

• Tips:
  • Learn and use students’ names.
  • Share your pronouns and encourage others to do the same.
  • Send quick notes (individually or to the class) to show support.
  • Add personal touches during sessions to help students see you as approachable and relatable.