Inclusive Teaching
Inclusive teaching recognizes that it is not enough to have a diverse group of people learning together, but those often marginalized must be actively included and valued. Recognizing that inclusion is not always enough to address systemic issues in higher education, we also work to make learning spaces more equitable by addressing structural issues with systemic change. More on inclusive and equity-based teaching.
Congratulations to the 2024 Graduates of the Inclusive Teaching Academy! Twenty-five faculty from 14 departments have engaged in this impactful program and completed action plans to engage in and promote inclusive teaching at Oakland University. Learn more about the participants and what they will be working on in the coming year.
About the Program
The purpose of the Inclusive Teaching Academy is to strengthen the knowledge and understanding of inclusive and culturally responsive teaching, use data and self-reflection to inform teaching, and incorporate evidence-based, high-impact practices.
This 10-week, two-phase faculty program includes:
- a 6-week Inclusive STEM Teaching Project Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), a NSF Improving Undergraduate STEM Education program with a CETL-led community of practice component.
- course planning workshops for implementing inclusive teaching.
Fall 2024 (on-campus only)
- Part 1 (online course with weekly community of practice meetings on campus): September 30-November 8
- Part 2 (course planning workshops weekly on campus): November 11-December 12 (break for Thanksgiving week)
Estimated time commitment: 5 hours per week
Winter 2025 (online only)
- Part 1 (weekly community of practice meetings): January 23-March 7 (break for Winter Recess)
- Part 2 (weekly planning workshops): March 10-April 3
Estimated time commitment: 5 hours per week
Eligibility
- STEM focus, but applicable to all faculty from any discipline
- Any OU instructor of record (i.e., lead instructor of any course at Oakland University) who can complete the program requirements
Program Requirements and Stipends
- Completion of Inclusive STEM Teaching online course
- Consistent participation in weekly meetings
- Robust course implementation plan
- Graduates will receive a $1,000 stipend
A MOOC is an online course designed to be accessible to a large number of participants over the internet. MOOCs are typically open to anyone who wants to enroll, and they often do not have strict prerequisites or admission requirements, making them accessible to a global audience. Most MOOCs offer a certificate for those who complete required activities. While they can usually be done at any time, sometimes MOOCs will offer time-based discussion forums and other interactive elements.
A community of practice is a group of people who share common goals and attitudes, and who meet weekly throughout the course to help contextualize the content within the OU teaching environment and institutional culture. Participating in this community of practice will allow participants to experience deep, meaningful conversations and personal growth in a supportive environment.
Participants will use their new understanding and reflections to implement changes to their practices and courses. These will be led and supported by CETL staff. Participants will share how their learning and new practices have influenced their classroom experiences
A New Syllabus Template and Top Tips for Inclusive Teaching
- This updated syllabus template and its recommendations can welcome students in a positive way and provide transparency about your expectations.
- A welcome message before the semester (1-3 days before Day 1) will help you build a relationship with students even before class begins. See starter language in CETL's Class and Student Communication Templates.
- Students are more likely to reach out for help when they are comfortable. Getting to know you through a short bio in the syllabus, Moodle profile, or a welcome video can make an impact.
Facilitated by Dr. Adina Schneeweis, a group of faculty at Oakland have committed to create and collect stories of diversity and inclusion on and around campus. CETL has supported this project since its start as a faculty development institute and learning community. Visit and contribute to StorytellingDiversity.
Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
100 Library Drive
Rochester, Michigan 48309-4479
(location map)
(248) 370-2751
[email protected]
Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
100 Library Drive
Rochester, Michigan 48309-4479
(location map)
(248) 370-2751