In this activity, students explore how their sense of belonging is shaped not only by personal experiences, but also by the systems they are part of, such as universities, social groups, and online communities. By analysing these systems, students gain insight into how inclusion and exclusion are created. Through reflection and discussion, they identify ways these systems can be improved and consider how they can contribute to more inclusive environments.
- Activity goal
- Reflect
- When
- In class
- Where
- Offline
- Duration
- < 60 minutes
- Group size
- Small | Medium
Step-by-step plan
Step 1: Introduction
Explain to students that belonging is not only a personal feeling, but is also shaped by larger systems such as universities (e.g., policies, classroom norms), families, and communities (e.g., online platforms). Tell students that this activity is meant to explore how these systems support or challenge their sense of belonging.
Step 2: Analyse a system
Ask students to work in groups of 3–5 and choose a system they are part of, such as a university, student club, or online community.
Instruct students to map out their chosen system by drawing or listing its key elements, such as rules, roles, traditions, and communication patterns. You can guide them with questions like:
- What values does this system promote?
- Who holds power within this system?
- What behaviours are rewarded or discouraged?
Step 3: Reflect and discuss plenary to improve the system
Invite students to discuss within their groups how the system supports or challenges their sense of belonging. Ask them to reflect on where they feel most included or excluded, and how the system influences their identity or behaviour.
Then, ask students to identify one small, concrete change that could make the system more inclusive. Have them discuss how this change could be implemented in practice and what impact it might have.
Tip 1
- Encourage groups to select different systems to create a richer discussion later.
Tip 2
- For an extended version, you can let students do a stakeholder analysis (who benefits, who is excluded?) and/or develop a brief implementation plan.
