Inclusion

As a country, and as a post-secondary institution, we embrace the ideas of multiculturalism, human rights and diversity. At UNBC, our motto is ‘En cha huná, interpreted as meaning “respecting all forms of life”.  And yet, racism, homophobia, gender-based violence, religious discrimination as well as other forms of intolerance are still evident in our communities and schools. Inclusion in our teaching and learning encapsulates the recognition of diversity and moves toward greater equity and decolonization. Willingness to acknowledge different perspectives and ways of knowing is at the core of respectful engagement with those around us, near and far, and at the core of truly understanding the worlds in which we live. Inclusion in our teaching and learning environments is a matter of breaking open our hearts and minds.

Inquiry:

The following are questions for each of us to consider …

  • Why is inclusion in teaching important and what does it look like for students and for instructors?
  • How do we recognize diversity in our classes? Can we broaden our definition of diversity?
  • How do we move from recognizing diversity to developing inclusion and equity?
  • What are some steps we can take to better allow students to see themselves in the course material and learning environment? 
  • How can our pedagogy be explicitly anti-racist and inclusive? What would this look like in syllabi, teaching practice, and assessment methods?

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