How Do I Build a More Inclusive Classroom Community?
Send an email or survey to students before the first day of class to get to know them. Ask about their backgrounds, interests, strengths, needs, and other topics, and try to adjust the classroom and course content accordingly. • Learn the names of students and encourage them to get to know each other by using name tags and/or an icebreaker to begin class sessions. • Incorporate “Welcoming Rituals” at the start of class, such as playing music, light check ins with students to ask how they are doing, or ask students to share something (if they choose) that happened to them that week. • Encourage social connections by visiting discussion sections and planning outside events to encourage students to make connections with each other and the instructor. • Share personal anecdotes and personal connections to course content, including areas where you’ve struggled, concepts you were surprised to learn, etc. to help students better relate to the course material and make real-world connections to the course material. • Promote small group work throughout the semester and encourage students to share contact information (if they wish) on the first day in order to build a supportive network throughout the semester. • Reduce power dynamics by sitting at the same level as your students, arranging desks or chairs in a circle (class size permitting), and/or encouraging students to lead class discussions. • Connect or refer students to Disability Student Services (DSS) as needed to ensure that you are meeting the needs of all students and providing support and accommodations. Ph: 386-226-7916 Email: dbdss@erau.edu 8
Illustration: Jude Boudon
Social support can have a direct impact on student health and well-being, with students with higher quality social support being less likely to experience mental health concerns (Hefner & Eisenberg, 2009). Social connectedness can also impact college student retention (Allen, Robbins, Casillas, & Oh, 2008), and has been shown to be positively correlated with achievement motivation (Walton, Cohen, Cwir, & Spencer, 2012). You can help your students’ mental health and well-being, as well as their academic performance, by helping to foster connection, encourage inclusivity, and build community.
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online