How can you remove barriers for students? Considering the times, formats and structures of office hours you extend to students is a great place to start.
Remove barriers to students meeting with you by offering a variety of times (time of day and length of meeting), formats (e.g., video conference, phone call, text message, email), and structures (e.g., one-on-one and in small groups). Promote your office hours in a way that is visually engaging and encouraging. Continually invite students to your office hours throughout the semester.
You might also refer to your office hours as “student hours,” since some students have the misconception, or may have received implicit messages, that “office hours” is the time instructors set aside to work in their offices and should not be disturbed. By referring to the time as “student hours,” you send a clear message that this time is for them.
This tool explains how to be intentional when selecting multimedia, readings, and examples so that they reflect diverse people, viewpoints, and voices.
Accessibility benefits everyone. Learn how to make accessibility the norm in your courses.
From the policies and resources required to support all students in their learning, to the value of including a diversity statement – this tool explains.
Using current language around identity is critical to ensuring all students feel acknowledged. This tool explains how to do it.
How can faculty model inclusive language and behavior in their own spaces – digital and in-person?
This tool explains that a name goes beyond what’s listed on a course roster. From asking preferred names, to pronunciation – this tool explains.
Learn how to let students get to know each other and develop a sense of community.
From preferred pronouns to plans for the future – a questionnaire can be an asset for any faculty member in creating inclusivity.
How can you remove barriers for students? Considering the times, formats and structures of office hours you extend to students is a great place to start.
Setting expectations early and aloud helps students understand what is and isn’t acceptable in your courses. Learn how to do it.