Workshops By Request | Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Instruction
Departments are invited to schedule a CTLT "Workshop By Request" session to engage departmental faculty in topics of broad interest. Other topics are possible – just inquire and we likely can offer it from our existing repertoire or develop a custom one.
- Each session can be considered for a 50-minute time slot, although longer sessions are possible based on conversations with the facilitators.
- Scheduling is first come, first served based on CTLT staff availability.
- Requests should be submitted at least one quarter prior if at all possible.
For questions about a specific session or interest in a related topic, contact the CTLT facilitator directly. To request a workshop, click on this link to go to the Request Form page, or click on any title.
Transparent Teaching for Equity and Inclusion
Facilitator, Sarah Macdonald, CTLT Assistant Director, DEI in Teaching
The transparent teaching framework provides practical methods to make the process of learning evident for students by clearly communicating expectations, learning goals, how students can reach those goals, and how they will be evaluated. This session will focus on transparent assignment design—one strategy of transparent teaching that research has shown contributes to equity and inclusion for first-generation students and those from low income backgrounds. We will explore the usefulness of this model in the discipline and identify additional transparent teaching methods.
Addressing Microaggressions in the Classroom
Facilitator: Sarah Macdonald, CTLT Assistant Director, DEI in Teaching
How can faculty maintain an inclusive and supportive classroom environment when microaggressions take place? Microaggressions are subtle forms of discrimination directed at people from marginalized identity groups. They are often communicated through comments or actions and may be intentional or unintentional. Though microaggressions may be subtle, they have documented harmful and cumulative negative effects. When students experience microaggressions in the classroom, either coming from faculty or other students, they are not only harmed emotionally, but there are negative effects on their learning and feelings of belonging. This workshop will provide faculty with strategies to identify and address microaggressions in the classroom.
Providing Equitable Academic Support
Facilitator: Sarah Macdonald, CTLT Assistant Director, DEI in Teaching
Seeking help from instructors in class, in office hours, or through other means is an important way that students receive academic support and resources. Oftentimes, instructors may assume that communicating to students that they are welcome to ask for help is enough to ensure equitable access. However, research shows that unwritten cultural rules and expectations around help-seeking confer academic advantage upon middle class students, while disadvantaging those from low-income backgrounds, and particularly those who are students of color. This workshop will introduce participants to research on student help-seeking. Instructors will explore their assumptions about students who ask for help and begin to devise strategies for providing more equitable support.
Making Textbooks More Affordable
Facilitator: Luanne Fose, CTLT Instructional Designer
Textbooks represent a significant expense for our students, but you can help make their education more affordable. If you would like to learn how to reduce textbook costs for your students, this Affordable Learning Solutions (AL$) workshop will show you the path to finding them. You will increase your awareness of the breadth of affordable and open resources and explore how to incorporate them into your courses by beginning your research for an appropriate OER text. An asynchronous online workshop with stipends will be described.
Creating Accessible Documents
Facilitator: Pam Dougherty, CTLT Instructional Designer and Accessibility Specialist
Faculty only. This workshop provides an overview of accessible instructional materials for students with disabilities. Participants will create an accessible Word document and convert to accessible PDF (focus on course syllabus). Covers requirements for CSU Accessible Technology Initiative (ATI) and Cal Poly accessibility policies. Available in-person or online by request.
Questions? Contact Pam at padoughe@calpoly.edu.
Creating Accessible Canvas Content
Facilitator: Pam Dougherty, CTLT Instructional Designer and Accessibility Specialist
Faculty only. This workshop provides an overview of accessible instructional materials for students with disabilities. Participants will create an accessible Canvas Page, using accessibility features in the rich content editor. Covers requirements for CSU Accessible Technology Initiative (ATI) and Cal Poly accessibility policies. Available in-person or online by request.
Questions? Contact Pam at padoughe@calpoly.edu.
ALSO: Custom book circles, learning communities, etc. -- additional opportunities for DEI in teaching
Facilitator: Sarah Macdonald, CTLT Assistant Director, DEI in Teaching
In addition to the options listed above, Sarah Macdonald regularly partners with colleges and departments to offer sustained programming around diversity, equity, and inclusion in teaching. Please contact Sarah directly to inquire about college or departmental book circles, learning communities, or additional tailored workshops.
