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

At Reynolds, our commitment to effective teaching practices is key to creating a learning environment where every student can succeed. This resource page offers strategies and guidance to help faculty develop classrooms that support a wide range of student backgrounds, perspectives, and learning needs. By using thoughtful instructional approaches, educators can foster engagement and provide meaningful learning experiences for all students.

Effective Teaching Strategies

Culturally Responsive Teaching

  • Recognize and value a range of student 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

  • Create a supportive classroom environment through intentional community-building activities.
  • Develop course policies that support student success, 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 grading strategies to minimize bias, such as anonymous grading or rubrics focused on specific learning outcomes. 
  • Seek feedback from students on their learning experiences to refine teaching approaches and enhance learning outcomes.
  • 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 effective learning environments. Effective 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 effective teaching practices in your teaching, you contribute to a richer, more engaging and meaningful educational experience for everyone.