Category: Belonging

Creating a Welcoming Learning Environment Fostering a sense of belonging in the classroom—whether online or in person—begins with intentional choices in syllabus design and early course interactions. Instructors play a key role in shaping the tone of the course by offering a classroom environment that is open, respectful, and welcoming to all students. Behaviors such […]

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First impressions matter. The syllabus is often a student’s first introduction to the instructor and their course. For many students, this initial impression can shape their expectations and comfort level. Some may feel uncertain or anxious about what lies ahead. Instructors can help ease these concerns by using language that demonstrates respect, support, and encouragement. […]

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Part of creating a sense of student belonging is recognizing that all of us come from different backgrounds, filled with cultural mores, commonalities, expectations, and more. Instructors can establish norms for classroom behavior while honoring the individuality of each participant and their backgrounds. Listed below are some quick-start steps to set the stage for a […]

Read More… from Creating a Sense of Student Belonging: A Quick-Start Guide