Foster an LGBTQIA+ classroom
Inclusive Actions Snapshot
Task:
Take a moment to reflect on your classroom practices! Below are five quick scenarios. Think about how you would respond to each and jot down your thoughts.
- Pronoun Check: A student shares their pronouns in class. Do you:
- A) Ignore it and move on.
- B) Thank them and share your own pronouns to normalize the practice.
- Inclusive Language: In a group activity, you hear a student use gendered terms like "guys" for the whole group. Do you:
- A) Let it go to avoid awkwardness.
- B) Gently suggest using "everyone" or "folks" as more inclusive terms.
- Representation in Content: You're updating your syllabus. Do you:
- A) Use the same materials as last year.
- B) Add readings or examples that highlight LGBTQIA+ voices in your field.
- Mistaken Pronouns: You accidentally use the wrong pronoun for a student. Do you:
- A) Apologize publicly in class.
- B) Acknowledge the mistake privately and commit to improving.
- Feedback Opportunity: A student expresses that they don’t feel included in group activities. Do you:
- A) Thank them and implement changes to make group dynamics more inclusive.
- B) Keep the current structure and assume they’ll adapt over time.
Next Steps:
Reflect on how often you chose option B – the inclusive action! Consider how these small, intentional choices can foster an affirming and supportive environment for all your students.
Creating an Inclusive Classroom for LGBTQIA+ 鶹Ժ
Creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ students is vital for their success and sense of belonging. Here’s how you can make your classroom a space where all students can thrive:
Start with Pronouns
- Share your pronouns with your class and invite students to do the same. Normalizing this practice helps everyone feel included, especially Trans and Nonbinary students.
- Use resources from the Center for Inclusion and Social Change to learn about pronouns, safe zone training, and more.
Foster an Inclusive Classroom Environment
- Syllabus and Course Introduction: Use LGBTQIA+ affirming language and integrate it into your syllabus and first-day introductions.
- Feedback Avenues: Provide regular opportunities for students to share feedback about the course.
- Acknowledge Assumptions: If you make a mistake or an assumption, acknowledge it and learn from it.
- Be a Resource Connector: Share information about gender-inclusive bathrooms, name-change options in Zoom, and related resources.
Build Inclusive Course Content
- Integrate LGBTQIA+ Perspectives: Highlight diverse voices and experiences in your curriculum.
- Who is on your reading list?
- What names and pronouns are used in problem examples?
- What experts, alumni, or professionals can you feature?
- Representation Matters: Connect students to professional organizations and role models in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Communicate Inclusively
- Use gender-inclusive language like “they/theirs” or “student” until you know individual pronouns.
- Regularly audit your written materials for assumptions or biases that could create barriers.
Practical Tips for Everyday Interactions
- If you mistakenly use the wrong pronoun, check in privately with the student later rather than during class.
- Show empathy and treat each student as an individual. Small personal connections, like asking about a favorite color, can make a big difference.
- Use notecards for students to share their pronouns and any other information they’d like you to know.
Take Action Beyond the Classroom
- Join the Inclusive Community of Practice.
- Participate in Office of Diversity, Equity, and Community Engagement (ODECE) training programs.
- Schedule a one-on-one consultation with the CTL's Inclusive Pedagogy Lead to refine your approach.
By taking these steps, you can create a welcoming and affirming learning environment for LGBTQIA+ students and contribute to a more inclusive campus culture.