Inclusivity enhances learning
- Aim to make each participant feel welcome in the class
- In face-to-face learning contexts, an instructor should circulate physically in all parts of the classroom to indicate that he/she is trying to reach all students
- Questions should be carefully chosen and then instructors should wait for students to answer
- Encourage responses with eye contact, pleasant facial expressions, nodding
- Recognize the contributions of students, especially those reluctant to speak out
- Instructors should stress that ALL students are expected to participate in online and face-to-face discussions
- Credit the students by repeating their names, "As Susan said,..."
- Coach for additional information: "Why do you think that is?"
- Write the student's comments on the board, an overhead, a flip chart, or in online discussions, summarize them and refer to them in postings to discussion groups
- Encourage learners by referring back to comments they have made
- Choose examples carefully. Include men and women, able-bodied people and people with disabilities, people with different sexual orientations and cultural backgrounds.
