In an endeavor to empower student belonging and academic success, the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences launched "Teaching for Inclusive Excellence," an initiative that took place over the summer. This innovative program began with a workshop on May 18, and is set to conclude on August 25. Participants include 29 faculty members from 14 academic units within BCAS. The workshop was the first step with a goal to provide a framework for inclusive teaching and explore specific strategies for implementing change. Throughout the summer months peer feedback meetings were held, where faculty met in pairs to discuss how the changes they have made to their courses.
The initiative was born out of the recognition that certain marginalized and historically underserved student groups face inequities in their educational experiences, leading to disparities in retention rates, graduation rates, and overall academic success. To address this challenge, the initiative poses a fundamental question: Can changes to teaching practices lead to more equitable student outcomes?
“As these changes take root and grow, they will undoubtedly play a crucial role in our students’ academic success and also in shaping the leaders of tomorrow – individuals who are compassionate, understanding, and ready to embrace the richness of diverse perspectives,” said Dean Mitchell S. McKinney.
Empowering Faculty through Workshop and Training
On May 18, a workshop called "Teaching for Inclusive Excellence: Building Capacity for Student Belonging and Academic Success," was presented in collaboration with the Institute for Teaching and Learning, the Office of Inclusion and Equity, and with additional support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Inclusive Excellence 3 Grant.
Using "Inclusive Teaching: Strategies for Promoting Equity in the College Classroom" by Kelly A. Hogan and Viji Sathy, as a guide for participants, the workshop aimed to help faculty develop teaching strategies that accommodate diverse learning styles and encourage open discussions. By equipping faculty members with these skills, the initiative aims to create a ripple effect of inclusivity throughout the entire college.
Dr. Jess Otto, faculty fellow in BCAS for inclusion, diversity and equity, led the initiative and told workshop participants that the objective is to create a learning environment where all students are valued for their diverse abilities, experiences, and perspectives. She said the program involves employing methods, strategies, and materials that are both diverse and accessible, reducing barriers and ensuring equal access to learning opportunities for all students.
Dean McKinney and Dr. Sheldon Wrice, vice president for inclusion and equity and chief diversity officer, were in attendance and shared remarks. Speakers in the workshop included (alphabetical):
- Dr. Janet Bean, director of the Institute for Teaching and Learning
- Dr. Toni Bisconti, associate professor of psychology
- Dr. Sandie L. Crawford, director of inclusion and equity in 暗黑爆料’s Office of Inclusion & Equity
- Jennifer Hebert, director of assessment
- Dr. Jess Otto, assistant professor of instruction of philosophy
- Dr. J. Cherie Strachan, professor of political science and director of the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics
The list of faculty members who are participating (alphabetically by last name): Toni Bisconti, psychology; Chris Buford, philosophy; Julie Cajigas, communication; Kathryn Cerrone, mathematics; Camelly Cruz-Martes, modern languages; Elisha Dumser, art; Amber Ferris, communication; Susan Kushner Benson, education; Gary Holliday, education; Travis Hreno, philosophy; Daniela Jauk-Ajamie, sociology/criminal justice; Anedra Jones, mathematics; Yang Lin, communication; Richard Londraville, biology; Jutta Luettmer-Strathmann, physics; Brad Maguth, education; Nancy Marion, political science; Andrea Meluch, communication; Kevin Moseby, sociology; Peter Niewiarowski, biology; Kirstin Polen de Campi, modern languages; Elena Popa, anthropology; Rolando Ramirez, biology; Sarah St. George, criminal justice; Molly Shelleman, geosciences; Mary Triece, communication; Ashley Wain, biology; Stephen Weeks, biology; and Lia Wiley, sociology.