How to create a culturally inclusive classroom

Introduction

In this MicroLab, you will work on creating an inclusive learning environment in which students, regardless of background (e.g., nationality, ethnicity, gender, physical health, social class, prior education) feel engaged and can showcase their talents. An inclusive learning environment also allows for conversations and discussions about sensitive (current) issues. As a teacher, how do you handle it when these types of topics come up in a teaching session or conversation? How do you ensure that different perspectives can and do exist and all students feel involved and heard?

During this MicroLab, you will be challenged to reflect on your role as a teacher in a (super)diverse learning environment and develop skills to create an inclusive learning environment in which, among other things, sensitive discussions or conversations can take place. During the workshop session, you will practice with a self-introduced situation/case with the help of a training actor.

Target group and required prior knowledge

The MicroLab is intended for lecturers who, based on their own teaching experiences, want to improve interactions with and among students to stimulate a classroom environment in which diverse groups of students feel included and have a successful study experience. No specific prior knowledge is required.

Content, form and time investment

The MicroLab is demand-oriented. You put a concrete issue you are dealing with forward. For example, you experience that you can’t fully reach certain groups of students during your lectures or your working groups: how can you involve them more? Or: the collaboration in project groups between students with or without Dutch previous education doesn’t go well: how to improve the collaboration among your students?

In preparation for the MicroLab, you will be provided scientific insights on diversity and inclusion in higher education and a preparatory assignment. During the MicroLab-session you work on your specific case together with the other participants. An important part of the session is role playing: cases put forward by participants will be acted out by participants under the supervision of an experienced trainer actor.

The topic of inclusive teaching will be approached from three different angles: the student’s perspective, (possible) teacher’s biases and culturally responsive teaching. The MicroLab concludes with a Proof of Competence, in which you show your efforts to make your education more inclusive. The content and format of this Proof of Competence depends on the topic submitted. The total time investment is approximately 15 hours (including preparation time, 4 hours MicroLab session, time spend on Proof of Competence).

Earn an Edubadge

You finish the MicroLab with a Proof of Competence. You will then receive an Edubadge. This is a digital, visual certificate which you can share on e.g. LinkedIn. Interested parties can immediately click on the certificate to find out what you have done to achieve the EduBadge.