Teaching to engage diversity, to include all learners, and to seek equity is essential for preparing civically engaged adultsand for creating a campus and society that recognizes the contributions of all people. Teaching for diversity refers to acknowledging a range of differences in the classroom. Teaching for inclusion signifies embracing difference. Teaching for equity allows the differences to transform the way we think, teach, learn and act such that all experiences and ways of being are handled with fairness and justice. These ideas complement each other and enhance educational opportunities for all students when simultaneously engaged. Three imperatives make it essential for us to actively practice teaching for diversity, inclusion, and equity:
- Difference is an essential part of our history and current reality. Dealing with human diversity and differential status is intractable in America due to our national history of racism and tensions betweenindividual freedom and the common good.
- Difference is an unstoppable part of our future. Classrooms are increasingly diverse and demography assures that this trend will continue.
- Diversity and inclusion improve teaching and learning. People learn and enrich their abilities to think critically and creatively as they engage in conversations across difference, especially when all learners’ abilities and attributes and embraced.
Inclusive teaching strategies are intended to ensure that all students feel supported such that they freely learn and explore new ideas, feel safe to express their views in a civil manner, and respected as individuals and members of groups. Intentionally incorporating inclusive teaching strategies helps students view themselves as people who belong to the community of learners in a classroom and university.
The University of Delaware has made Inclusive Excellence one of the 5 major priorities that inform our vision for the future of the University. CTAL is pleased to support all who teach at UD in their efforts to create learning environments where all students can succeed.
