Foster an LGBTQIA+ classroom

  Inclusive Actions Snapshot

Task:
Take a moment to reflect on your classroom practices! Below are five quick scenarios. Think about how you would respond to each and jot down your thoughts.

  1. Pronoun Check: A student shares their pronouns in class. Do you:
    • A) Ignore it and move on.
    • B) Thank them and share your own pronouns to normalize the practice.
  2. Inclusive Language: In a group activity, you hear a student use gendered terms like "guys" for the whole group. Do you:
    • A) Let it go to avoid awkwardness.
    • B) Gently suggest using "everyone" or "folks" as more inclusive terms.
  3. Representation in Content: You're updating your syllabus. Do you:
    • A) Use the same materials as last year.
    • B) Add readings or examples that highlight LGBTQIA+ voices in your field.
  4. Mistaken Pronouns: You accidentally use the wrong pronoun for a student. Do you:
    • A) Apologize publicly in class.
    • B) Acknowledge the mistake privately and commit to improving.
  5. Feedback Opportunity: A student expresses that they don’t feel included in group activities. Do you:
    • A) Thank them and implement changes to make group dynamics more inclusive.
    • B) Keep the current structure and assume they’ll adapt over time.

Next Steps:
Reflect on how often you chose option B – the inclusive action! Consider how these small, intentional choices can foster an affirming and supportive environment for all your students.

Creating an Inclusive Classroom for LGBTQIA+ Students

Creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ students is vital for their success and sense of belonging. Here’s how you can make your classroom a space where all students can thrive:

Start with Pronouns

  • Share your pronouns with your class and invite students to do the same. Normalizing this practice helps everyone feel included, especially Trans and Nonbinary students.
  • Use resources from the Center for Inclusion and Social Change to learn about pronouns, safe zone training, and more.

Foster an Inclusive Classroom Environment

  • Syllabus and Course Introduction: Use LGBTQIA+ affirming language and integrate it into your syllabus and first-day introductions.
  • Feedback Avenues: Provide regular opportunities for students to share feedback about the course.
  • Acknowledge Assumptions: If you make a mistake or an assumption, acknowledge it and learn from it.
  • Be a Resource Connector: Share information about gender-inclusive bathrooms, name-change options in Zoom, and related resources.

Build Inclusive Course Content

  • Integrate LGBTQIA+ Perspectives: Highlight diverse voices and experiences in your curriculum.
    • Who is on your reading list?
    • What names and pronouns are used in problem examples?
    • What experts, alumni, or professionals can you feature?
  • Representation Matters: Connect students to professional organizations and role models in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Communicate Inclusively

  • Use gender-inclusive language like “they/theirs” or “student” until you know individual pronouns.
  • Regularly audit your written materials for assumptions or biases that could create barriers.

Practical Tips for Everyday Interactions

  • If you mistakenly use the wrong pronoun, check in privately with the student later rather than during class.
  • Show empathy and treat each student as an individual. Small personal connections, like asking about a favorite color, can make a big difference.
  • Use notecards for students to share their pronouns and any other information they’d like you to know.

Take Action Beyond the Classroom

By taking these steps, you can create a welcoming and affirming learning environment for LGBTQIA+ students and contribute to a more inclusive campus culture.