Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

Kresge Library, Room 430
100 Library Drive
Rochester, Michigan 48309-4479
(location map)
(248) 370-2751
cetl@oakland.edu

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.

Join us in Spring 2024 for our first Inclusive Teaching Academy!

Apply now this exciting opportunity!

Inclusive Teaching Academy

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 12-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. 

Still accepting applications for Spring 2024

Apply Program Description 

Current Offerings in Winter & Spring 2024

Winter 2024

  • Part 1 (course with community of practice): January 15-February 23
  • Part 2 (implementation plans with workshops): March 4-29
    Estimated time commitment: 5 hours per week

Spring 2024 (accelerated)

  • Part 1 (course planning community): May 6-31
  • Part 2 (course planning workshops): June 3-7
    Estimated time commitment: 10 hours per week
Eligibility, Requirements, Stipends

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 regular, on-campus meetings
  • Robust course implementation plan
  • Graduates will receive a $1,000 stipend
What is a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)?

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.

What is a Community of Practice?

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.

What is a Course Planning Workshop?

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

Inclusive Teaching Updates

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.
StorytellingDiversity at OU

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.