Fostering an inclusive environment takes effort and thoughtfulness. We must be aware of the people around us and be willing to do what we can to make them feel heard and respected. The most important thing to remember is to keep an open mind. Accepted behaviour, language, and topics are changing all the time and practices that are widely welcomed may not be positively received by some individuals. Being flexible in changing your manners, language, and teaching materials when needed, keeps our diverse environment inclusive. If you make a mistake, that is okay, we are all learning together, and to make the learning process a little easier we have linked multiple resources below and included 4 infographics for inclusive language.
Supporting Diversity in the Classroom
Equipped with links and examples to aid understanding, this article and these tips are great reads to spark ideas on how to better support diversity in your classroom. The articles discuss what diversity in the classroom means and why it’s so important. From examining your teaching materials to addressing inequality, there are tips for everyone.
Challenge your Perceptions and Ideologies
This interactive, workshop-style video discusses white fragility, anti-racism, and implicit bias. As you watch you get the opportunity to answer questions along with the hosts and challenge your own prejudices. This resource is great for high school students.
Having Difficult Conversations
Learning for Justice is a wonderful platform to check out. They have a plethora of resources crafted specifically for educators and students, you can filter by grade level, subject, and topic. Their aim is to further racial justice by strengthening intersectional movements and advancing human rights. They also have an amazing PDF called ‘Let's Talk' all about facilitating critical conversations with students.
Pathways to Inclusive Teaching
This article reviews five different, yet complementary, principles for teaching inclusively. Each principle is paired with teaching strategies and links for additional classroom practices. If you need ideas on diversifying class content, making elements more accessible, and setting student expectations, then give this a read.
4 Infographics on Inclusive Language
Words matter. The way in which we use language can convey respect and understanding or a lack thereof. Inclusive language is rooted in the idea that we are mindful of our perspectives and the feelings of others. Brightspark strives to use language that is free of stereotypes, subtle discrimination, and negative messages. We have compiled the most useful tips for keeping your classroom language as inclusive as possible and created 4 infographics to help you say the right thing. Check them out below!
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has been working since 2007 to establish and maintain a relationship of mutual respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. The Commission has led to the creation of new monuments and the discussion of Canada's history from all perspectives. The Commission has made strides for Canada, but individually we must do our own part too. Learning about Indigenous history, cultures, and proper pronunciation are a few ways to start.
Understanding how someone expresses and identifies themselves is an important step in respecting who they are. Normalizing the use of pronouns or using gender-neutral terms are great ways to help an individual feel more comfortable in an environment. We all want to feel like we fit in and that there is a place for us.
Canada is a very diverse place, no matter where you are, be it at a large function or in your very own classroom. You will meet and interact with many different people, who have cultures and beliefs different than your own, that look different than you. In these situations, never make assumptions, check your biases, and avoid stereotypes, especially those rooted in negativity.
It is paramount that you do not define someone based on their ability/disability. Using person first language emphasizes the person and not their condition. They are more than their ability/disability and remember, not all abilities/disabilities can be visually observed.
Conclusion (Include Keyword or Keyword Alternative):
Fostering an inclusive and diverse environment in the classroom is a form of respect and acceptance. It makes people feel safe and heard. It is a continuous process, which sometimes won’t be easy, but remember to be flexible, open, and kind. Think of yourself in the other person’s shoes; how would you want to be treated?
If you would like to see how Brightspark is championing diversity, equity, and inclusivity look at our DEI page here.
Author Credentials
Tamara Bozickovic is the Tour Leader Supervisor at Brightspark. A proud McMaster graduate and dedicated professional, she has completed several diversity, equity, and inclusion trainings during her academic and professional careers.
Teaching diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace is integral to Tamara’s role at Brightspark. She is committed to anti-racism, promoting inclusivity, being an ally, and fostering difficult conversations, ensuring everyone who participates feels respected, comfortable, and in a safe space.
Completed these for 4 years, 2015-2018