Teaching Guides & Resources > Teaching Strategy & Pedagogy > Inclusive Teaching Practices

At Reynolds, our commitment to inclusive teaching practices in education is integral to fostering a learning environment where every student can thrive. This resource page provides strategies and guidance to support faculty in creating inclusive classrooms that recognize and embrace diversity in all its forms, from race and ethnicity to neurodiversity, gender, and more. Inclusive teaching ensures equitable learning experiences for all students, promoting a sense of belonging and supporting the varied needs of a diverse student body.

Inclusive Teaching Strategies

Culturally Responsive Teaching

  • Recognize and value students' diverse cultural backgrounds.
  • Adapt course materials to include voices and perspectives from underrepresented groups.
  • Encourage open dialogue about cultural experiences and social justice issues within your discipline.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

  • Provide multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression to support all learners, including students with disabilities and neurodiverse students.
  • Create flexible assessments that allow students to demonstrate learning in various ways.
  • Utilize accessible teaching tools and technologies, such as closed captions, alternative text, and screen-reader-friendly materials.

Fostering a Sense of Belonging

  • Build an inclusive classroom environment through intentional community-building activities.
  • Develop course policies that promote equity, such as flexible deadlines or participation alternatives for students facing challenges related to mental health or caregiving responsibilities.
  • Host regular student engagement hours in various formats (in-person and virtual).

Addressing Implicit Bias in Teaching

  • Implicit bias, also known as implicit prejudice or implicit attitude, is a negative attitude, of which one is not consciously aware, against a specific social group.
  • Reflect on personal teaching practices and any potential biases that might impact interactions with students.
  • Implement inclusive grading strategies to minimize bias, such as anonymous grading or rubrics focused on specific learning outcomes.
  • Seek feedback from diverse students on their learning experiences to improve classroom equity.
  • Project Implicit - Implicit Association Test (IAT).

Neurodiversity in the Classroom

  • Recognize the strengths and challenges of neurodiverse learners (e.g., students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia).
  • Provide clear, consistent instructions and structured environments to support focus and engagement.
  • Offer flexibility in how students participate in discussions, submit assignments, and demonstrate understanding.

Ongoing Commitments

The strategies outlined here represent just a starting point in fostering inclusive learning environments. Inclusive teaching practices are ongoing commitments that require continuous reflection and adaptation. By targeting resources, removing barriers, and respecting students' voice and agency, we can ensure that personal and social identifiers such as race, gender, disability, and income do not limit access to educational opportunities or predict future success. By staying open to new ideas and embracing Inclusive teaching practices in your teaching, you contribute to a richer, more inclusive educational experience for everyone.