Ensuring an inclusive learning environment is critical for student success and engagement. One way faculty and staff can help create inclusive learning spaces is being aware of the intent versus the impact of classroom dialogue and clearly sharing the intentions with the class prior to the discussion.
While we have good intentions for initiating class discussions and lessons around identity, the impacts of these conversations can affect students in varying ways. Encouraging students to be mindful and respectful of peer comments helps create a space for healthy dialogue.
Reminder: The Diversity and Inclusion Summit, hosted by the Office of Diversity, Equity and Community Engagement, is happening this week Nov. 7–8. The summit provides many opportunities to increase our collective knowledge and skills to create safe and inclusive spaces. Show your support and attend one of the many great sessions!
Student Affairs also offers a variety of resources and trainings throughout the academic year:
Safe Zone: LGBTQ Ally Development Program
The Gender and Sexuality Center (GSC) offers monthly Safe Zone Trainings, providing information about campus climate for the LGBTQ and allied community, CU and Colorado resources, policies and protections, and best practices for creating inclusive learning and work environments at the university.
Next workshop: Thursday, Nov. 9
Wait Your Turn: Recognizing and Interrupting Sexism
The Women’s Resource Center provides this educational session designed to help identify examples of sexism in our lives and learn strategies for interrupting sexism.
Next workshop: Wednesday, Nov. 15
Veteran Educators Training and Support Program
There is a 30-minute online course available in SkillSoft for faculty and staff who wish to better educate themselves about veteran students. SkillSoft can be accessed through the MyCUInfo portal; from the SkillSoft homepage, search for “CU: VETS: Veteran Educators Training and Support Program.”
Stay tuned for additional trainings and new opportunities available for the spring semester!
Exploring Student Affairs is a series for discovering the roles of Student Affairs on campus as a resource not only for students but also faculty and staff. Read more from Exploring Student Affairs: "Supporting students and colleagues through traumatic events," "Supporting student resiliency," "Helping students get involved," "Talking about alcohol, other drugs," "Recognizing and responding to stress"
